Carbon monoxide in the human body. Carbon monoxide poisoning, what you need to know. People who are most at risk

What is carbon monoxide and where does it form?

Carbon monoxide is formed during the incomplete combustion of various substances. Carbon monoxide has been a daily companion of people for a long time. It is released into the atmosphere in large quantities by motor vehicles, gas stoves, heating fuel systems, during smoking, and even by the person himself when breathing.

Since this gas is odorless, it is almost impossible to detect its increased content in the room. According to statistics, carbon monoxide intoxication ranks second among the causes of death from toxic substances, second only to alcohol and its surrogates.

Why is carbon monoxide dangerous?

What happens when a person breathes in air with a high concentration of CO? To do this, you need to remember what function the lungs perform. A person breathes to saturate all the systems and organs of his body with oxygen, otherwise hypoxia and death will occur. Carbon monoxide combines with the main blood protein to form carboxyhemoglobin. This deprives the red blood cells of the ability to deliver oxygen to the blood cells, and, as a result, carbon monoxide poisoning occurs. The consequences vary depending on the severity of such intoxication. First, hypoxia manifests itself in the form of dizziness, weakness in the legs, darkening in the eyes. If the concentration of carbon monoxide rises, confusion and death occur.

There is a constant low level of carbon monoxide in the air in every major city. Signs of chronic poisoning with this gas are causeless headaches, fatigue, weakness, irritability and sleep problems. Smoking residents of megacities and people forced to breathe tobacco smoke are especially affected. The content of carbon monoxide in the lungs of these people exceeds the norm forty times.

How to protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning?

To minimize the risk of intoxication with this substance, you need to know where its concentration can be dangerously high. Carbon monoxide is always deadly in unventilated areas. Therefore, you should not turn on the car engine in a closed garage or box. Also, it is impossible to lock the damper in a room with stove or other fuel heating. Cooking on a gas stove is an excuse to open a window. A huge danger of “burning out” exists during fires and explosions, so an attempt to save property with a small localization of a fire can be fatal. Often people die in their sleep precisely because they did not feel unwell in time with carbon monoxide poisoning. Unfortunately, it is almost impossible to completely protect yourself from carbon monoxide in large cities. Getting carbon monoxide while smoking is voluntary, but it is better to protect yourself from passive smoking. Doctors advise against jogging and cycling near busy highways. By doing this, you will do yourself more harm than good. For sports, it is better to choose a quiet park or alley, which are located away from places where carbon monoxide accumulates.

One of the strongest poisons that people encounter at home or at work is carbon monoxide (CO). This gaseous substance is heavier than air, transparent, colorless, odorless, is formed in almost all types of combustion and is therefore called carbon monoxide. Its insidiousness also lies in the fact that it easily penetrates through filtering materials and other obstacles: walls, windows, soil, and such protective equipment as filtering respirators do not save from damage.

The presence of CO in the air can only be determined using special instruments. It is also felt if people begin to rapidly develop the characteristic symptoms of intoxication.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is an acute pathological condition that occurs due to the ingestion of CO in a certain concentration in the human body. In the common people, it can be called burning out, and carbon monoxide itself can be called lighting. Its toxic effect on the body is so dangerous that without the provision of qualified assistance, serious consequences, including death, can occur.

CO poisoning is the most common type of intoxication obtained by inhalation. At the same time, the number of cases that ended in death is quite large - 18%. They are in second place after deaths caused by alcohol overdose.

Main sources of CO emission

Carbon monoxide or lighting gas poisoning, with significant health effects, can occur near the following sources:

stove heating, fireplaces or sauna stoves in case of improper operation;
a garage with poor ventilation when there is a car with a running engine in it;
high concentration of exhaust gases in urban air;
malfunction of household equipment operating on propane;
filling with low-quality respiratory mixture of breathing apparatus;
prolonged burning of kerosene in a small, poorly ventilated room;
fires;
gasified premises operating gas equipment;
possible accidents at the enterprises of the metallurgical and chemical industries or large-scale explosions at military ammunition depots.

Why and why is carbon monoxide dangerous?

The strength of carbon monoxide on the human body and the severity of poisoning will depend on several reasons:

Actual concentration of carbon monoxide.
The duration of the damaging effect.
Ambient temperature.
The state of health and the immune system, including the presence of anemia, chronic or acute pathologies of the pulmonary and / or cardiovascular system.
The level of physical exhaustion of the body immediately at the time of CO action - the more physical activity was before the “contact”, the more severe the consequences will be.

Men are less resistant to CO2 than women. In addition, the category particularly sensitive to the effects of carbon monoxide includes:

Heavy smokers and alcoholics - compared to others, they can hardly tolerate even mild poisoning.
Pregnant and lactating women.
Children and teenagers.

Intoxication and its consequences for the future newborn are especially difficult. The fetus suffers from tissue hypoxia more pronounced and longer than the expectant mother herself.

The accumulation of carbon monoxide in the house, in the air of the work area or in a fire, equal to 14.08 mg / l, causes vomiting, loss of consciousness and death in just 1-3 minutes.

The smallest concentration of carbon dioxide at which the first disturbances occur in the body (the light and color sensitivity of the eyes begins to fall) is 0.006 mg/l at an exposure time of 25 minutes.

The maximum allowable concentration (MPC) or the maximum allowable level of CO is 7.04 mg/l. In 1-2 minutes there will be a dull headache and severe dizziness, and in 10-15 minutes there will be a loss of consciousness. Nevertheless, when providing the necessary assistance with such MPC, the consequences and outcome can still be quite favorable.

The effect of CO on the human body

CO can enter the body only by inhalation - by inhalation. The vast majority of carbon monoxide is also excreted through the lungs, and very small amounts leave the body with sweat, feces and urine. This cleansing takes 12 hours. Only a negligible amount of CO2 that does not have a harmful effect on health can remain dissolved in the blood plasma.

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs due to the fact that it has a direct toxic effect on the cells of the body:

the combination of hemoglobin with carbon monoxide leads to the formation of carboxyhemoglobin, which cannot carry oxygen, and as a result, acute transport hypoxia develops, quickly leading to oxygen starvation of the body as a whole;
the interaction of CO (up to 50%) with other hemoproteins leads to blockade in the respiratory chains of mitochondria, which disrupts the utilization of O2 by the cell and causes acute tissue hypoxia;
carbon monoxide disrupts the work of skeletal muscles and the heart muscle by blocking myoglobin and the formation of carboxymyoglobin;
due to reactive developing general hypoxia, multiple microhemorrhages quickly occur, disturbances in the tissues of the gray and white medulla, embryonic tissues are affected;
supersaturation of blood with free O2 leads to the development of oxidative stress;
CO directly acts on cell membranes, which negatively affects the metabolism of amino acids and catecholamines, thereby accelerating the rate of natural cell death.

Attention. Carbon monoxide intoxication, which caused a violation of the blood supply to the white matter of the brain, can cause delayed progressive demyelinating neuropathy.

Clinic of poisoning

Obvious signs of poisoning begin to appear when CO molecules have captured about 20% of the hemoglobin in erythrocytes. In this case, the symptoms continue to depend on the degree of carbon monoxide poisoning. Moderate severity occurs when the level of carboxyhemoglobin reaches 50%, severe - at 60-70%.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning (characteristic in order of occurrence)

Easy degree

Average degree +

Severe degree ++

redness of the skin and mucous membranes

decreased perception of color and light

headache - hoop

slight dizziness

rolling nausea

sore throat

obligatory recurrence of symptoms after 3-4 hours

pallor of the skin

development of severe weakness

"feet wobble"

hearing loss

pressing pains in the region of the heart, arrhythmia

bullous dermatitis, bedsores

confusion

short faint (required)

vomit

shortness of breath

cramps and flaccidity of the neck muscles

kidney failure

development of pulmonary and cerebral edema

deep fainting

coma with an exit in 5-6 hours in acute intoxication psychosis

The most unfavorable prognostic sign is a coma that lasts more than 48 hours.

The question of the effect of alcohol on the severity of poisoning is not fully understood. On the one hand, lethal concentrations of CO increase if ethanol is present in the blood - thus, drinking alcoholic beverages before the onset of poisoning may be a protective factor. On the other hand, chronic alcoholics are more susceptible to the effects of carbon monoxide.

There is evidence of an increase in the toxic effect of CO on the body, in which barbiturates or narcotic substances are present.

Pathologies that can aggravate the classic clinical picture of poisoning:

The brain is the first to respond to reactive oxygen starvation and oxidative stress - epileptic seizures, inadequate mental reactions, the whole spectrum of hallucinations, aggression, “nakedness of desires” are possible.
Supersaturation with carboxymyoglobin - hypertension and tachycardia, which, against the background of oxygen hypoxia, can cause cardiac asthma, myocarditis, myocardial infarction.
The defeat of the pulmonary system - secondary pneumonia.
Damage to the nervous system - quite persistent inflammation of the type of cervical-brachial plexitis, affecting the radial, ulnar or median nerve, as well as long-term polyneuritis of the auditory, optic, sciatic or femoral nerve.

Complications after CO poisoning

The consequences of carbon monoxide intoxication can be:

memory lapses - lack of memories of the circumstances under which the poisoning occurred;
obsessive headaches, bouts of nausea and dizziness;
a series of fainting states;
symptoms of extrapyramidal insufficiency - changes in muscle tone: twitching, immobilization of certain parts of the muscles (or a combination thereof);
in the young, twitching involuntary movements that come on suddenly;
in the elderly - dementia and deep depressive states;
manifestations of mental illness that proceeded in a latent form.

First aid for carbon monoxide poisoning

In case of carbon monoxide poisoning, first of all, it is necessary to leave the place where it occurred as soon as possible. In the event of an accident or fire, in which large areas are contaminated, PMK gas masks and respirators equipped with filters of 2 and 3 efficiency classes (hopkalite cartridges) are recommended to help those who have been poisoned and take them out of the affected area. Only when they are used is the maximum possible protection achieved.

In any case, it is important to think about your own safety and be sure to make sure that the ambulance team is called, and if not, then call it yourself. The clinical picture of carbon monoxide poisoning is not always true, and additional risks of developing long-term consequences oblige to call a specialist for examination, consultation, and, if necessary, hospitalization of the victim.

Emergency first aid for carbon monoxide poisoning is performed in the following order:

If the poisoned person was taken out of the affected area unconscious, put him on his side and check that the airways are free. Unbutton a tight collar, loosen a tightening belt or other items of clothing.
Next, smell ammonia and carry out rubbing, which will help stimulate blood circulation. In the absence of a heartbeat, artificial respiration and chest compressions are required - 2:36.
If the poisoned person is conscious, you need to put cold compresses (or, conversely, mustard plasters) on the chest and provide the patient with a plentiful hot and sweet drink - for example, tea or coffee.
Ensure complete physical and emotional rest. Do not leave the poisoned person alone, conduct calm conversations with him.

If carbon monoxide poisoning occurs, then first aid, including first aid (PMP), which will really help the body, is the introduction of a special antidote called acyzol. It is the speed of its administration from the moment of poisoning that will affect the development of further symptoms.

Treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning, symptoms and treatment will be dependent, since the nature of the signs will make the primary diagnosis. The main diagnostic manipulation to determine the severity of the lesion is considered to be blood sampling from a vein for its biochemical analysis.

Under the conditions of treatment in a hospital, the algorithm of medical care provides for the following procedures:

hyperbaric oxygenation in a pressure chamber;
artificial ventilation of the lungs to accelerate the removal of CO;
transfusion of red blood cells or whole blood;
droppers with hypertonic or cardiotonic solutions.

Preventive measures

In factories where there is a high probability of an accidental CO leak, not only are safety instructions signed, but they also regularly conduct practical training so that every person working at the plant knows what to do in case of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Prevention consists of the following activities:

In the case of work at an enterprise using CO, strictly observe the established safety standards and rules of conduct in emergency situations.
Monitor the health of the heating equipment. In the event of a malfunction, do not continue to use it under any circumstances.
Clean chimneys annually.
Make sure that there is sufficient air ventilation in rooms where appliances with an open flame are used.
Do not turn on the car engine for a long time in the garage.
Do not spend a lot of time near highways with heavy traffic.

The last point should be paid special attention to those who live in large metropolitan areas. Adhering to a healthy lifestyle, many people perform daily runs along the paths along the highways or located next to them and below, but at this time irreparable harm is caused to the body. Health jogging should be done in specially equipped places or park areas.

If poisoning occurs carbon monoxide , then we are talking about a serious pathological condition. It develops if a certain concentration enters the body carbon monoxide .

This condition is dangerous to health and life, and if you do not turn to specialists for help in a timely manner, death from carbon monoxide can occur.

Carbon monoxide (carbon monoxide, CO) is a product that is released during combustion and enters the atmosphere. Since poison gas has no smell or taste, and it is impossible to determine its presence in the air, it is very dangerous. In addition, it can penetrate soil, walls, filters. Many are interested in the question, carbon monoxide is heavier or lighter than air, the answer is that it is lighter than air.

That is why it is possible to determine that the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air is exceeded using special devices. It is also possible to suspect CO poisoning if a person develops some signs rapidly.

In urban conditions, the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air is increased by vehicle exhaust gases. But car exhaust poisoning can only occur at high concentrations.

How CO affects the body?

This gas enters the blood very quickly and actively binds to. As a result, it produces carboxyhemoglobin , which is more closely related to hemoglobin than oxyhemoglobin (oxygen and hemoglobin). The resulting substance blocks the transfer of oxygen to tissue cells. As a result, it develops hemic type.

Carbon monoxide in the body binds to myoglobin (it is a protein of skeletal muscles and heart muscle). As a result, the pumping function of the heart decreases, and severe muscle weakness develops.

Also carbon monoxide enters into oxidative reactions, which disrupts the normal biochemical balance in the tissues.

Where can carbon monoxide poisoning occur?

Many situations can occur in which carbon monoxide poisoning is possible:

poisoning by combustion products during a fire;
in rooms where gas equipment is operated, and there is no normal ventilation, there is not enough supply air, which is necessary for normal gas combustion;
in those industries where CO is involved in the reactions of synthesis of substances ( acetone , phenol );
in places where automobile exhaust gases can accumulate due to insufficient ventilation - in tunnels, garages, etc.;
at home, when there is a leakage of lighting gas;
when staying near very busy highways for a long time;
with prolonged use of a kerosene lamp, if the room is not ventilated;
if the stove damper of the home stove, fireplace, sauna stove was closed too early;
when using breathing apparatus with low-quality air.

Who can suffer from hypersensitivity to CO?

people who have been diagnosed with exhaustion of the body;
those who suffer , ;
future mothers;
teenagers, children;
those who smoke a lot;
people who abuse alcohol.

You should know that organs and systems in case of carbon monoxide poisoning are more quickly affected in women. The symptoms of poisoning are very similar. methane .

Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning

The following describes the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning in humans, depending on the concentration of CO. Symptoms of household gas poisoning and poisoning from other sources manifest themselves in different ways, and by the way carbon monoxide (not carbon dioxide, as it is sometimes mistakenly called) acts on a person, one can assume how strong its concentration was in the air. However, carbon dioxide in high concentrations can also lead to poisoning and the manifestation of a number of alarming symptoms.

Concentration up to 0.009%

Clinical manifestations are noted after 3-5 hours:

decrease in the speed of psychomotor reactions;
increased blood flow in vital organs;
in people with heart failure in severe form, chest pain is also noted.

Concentration up to 0.019%

Clinical manifestations are noted after 6 hours:

performance decreases;
shortness of breath with moderate physical exertion;
headache , slightly pronounced;
visual impairment;
the death of those who suffer from severe heart failure is possible, and fetal death can also occur.

Concentration 0.019-0.052%

severe throbbing headache;
irritability, instability of the emotional state;
nausea;
impaired attention, memory;
fine motor problems.

Concentration up to 0.069%

Clinical manifestations are noted after 2 hours:

vision problems;
worse headache pain;
confusion;
weakness;
nausea, vomiting;
runny nose.

Concentration 0.069-0.094%

Clinical manifestations are noted after 2 hours:

severe dysmotility (ataxia);
appearance;
strong rapid breathing.

Concentration 0.1%

Clinical manifestations are noted after 2 hours:

weak pulse;
a state of fainting;
convulsions;
breathing becomes rare and superficial;
condition .

Concentration 0.15%

Clinical manifestations are observed after 1.5 hours. Manifestations are similar to the previous description.

Concentration 0.17%

Clinical manifestations are noted after 0.5 hours.

Manifestations are similar to the previous description.

Concentration 0.2-0.29%

Clinical manifestations are noted after 0.5 hours:

convulsions appear;
there is respiratory depression and cardiac activity;
coma ;
death is likely.

Concentration 0.49-0.99%

Clinical manifestations are noted after 2-5 minutes:

no reflexes;
pulse thready;
deep coma;
death.

Concentration 1.2%

Clinical manifestations are noted after 0.5-3 minutes:

convulsions;
lack of consciousness;
vomit;
death.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

The table below summarizes the signs that appear with different degrees of poisoning:

The mechanism of development of symptoms

The manifestation of symptoms of various types is associated with exposure to carbon monoxide. Let us consider in more detail the symptoms of various types and the features of the mechanisms of their manifestation.

neurological

The greatest sensitivity to hypoxia show nerve cells as well as the brain. That is why the development of dizziness, nausea, headache indicate that oxygen starvation of cells occurs. More severe neurological symptoms appear as a result of severe or irreversible damage to the nerve structures. In this case, convulsions, impaired consciousness occur.

Respiratory

When breathing quickens, the compensatory mechanism “turns on”. However, if the respiratory center is damaged after poisoning, the respiratory movements become superficial and ineffective.

Cardiovascular

Due to the lack of oxygen, more active cardiac activity is noted, that is, tachycardia . But due to hypoxia of the heart muscle, pain in the heart can also occur. If such pain becomes acute, it means that oxygen has completely stopped flowing to the myocardium.

Dermal

Due to a very strong compensatory blood flow to the head, the mucous membranes and skin of the head become blue-red.

If mild or moderate carbon monoxide poisoning or natural gas poisoning has occurred, then for a long time a person may experience: dizziness and headaches. Also, his memory, intellectual abilities are deteriorating, emotional fluctuations are noted, since during poisoning the gray and white matter of the brain is affected.

The consequences of severe poisoning, as a rule, are irreversible. Very often, such lesions end in death. In this case, the following severe manifestations are noted:

subarachnoid hemorrhages;
disorders of a skin-trophic nature (edema and tissue);
cerebral edema ;
violation of cerebral hemodynamics;
deterioration of vision and hearing up to complete loss;
polyneuritis ;
pneumonia in severe form, which complicates coma;

First aid for carbon monoxide poisoning

First of all, emergency care for carbon monoxide poisoning involves the immediate cessation of human contact with the gas that poisons the body, as well as the restoration of all important body functions. It is extremely important that the person who provides first aid does not become poisoned in the course of these actions. Therefore, if possible, it is necessary to put on a gas mask, and only after that go to the room where the poisoning occurred.

Before the start of PMP, it is necessary to take out or remove the one who suffered from the room in which the concentration of carbon monoxide is increased. You need to clearly understand what CO is what kind of gas, and how quickly it can harm the body. And since each breath of poisoned air will only increase negative symptoms, it is necessary to deliver the victim to fresh air as soon as possible.

No matter how quickly and professionally the first aid is provided, even if the person feels relatively well, it is necessary to call an ambulance. There is no need to be deceived by the fact that the victim is joking and laughing, because such a reaction can be provoked by the action of carbon monoxide on the vital centers of the nervous system. Only a professional doctor can clearly assess the patient's condition and understand what to do in case of carbon monoxide poisoning.

If the degree of poisoning is mild, the victim should be given strong tea, warm it up and ensure complete rest.

If confusion is noted, or it is absent at all, you should lay the person on his side on a flat surface, make sure that he receives an influx of fresh air by unbuttoning his belt, collar, underwear. Give a sniff of ammonia, holding the cotton at a distance of 1 cm.

In the absence of a heartbeat and breathing, artificial respiration should be carried out, a sternum massage should be done in the projection of the heart.

In an emergency, you can't act rashly. If there are still people in a burning building, you cannot save them on your own, as this can lead to an increase in the number of victims. It is important to immediately call the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

Even after a few breaths of CO poisoned air, death can occur. Therefore, it is a mistake to believe that a wet rag or gauze mask can protect against the harmful effects of carbon monoxide. Only a gas mask can prevent the lethal effects of CO.

Treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning

Do not practice after poisoning treatment at home. A person in such a situation needs the help of specialists.

Provided that the victim is in a critical condition, doctors carry out a set of resuscitation measures. Immediately injected intramuscularly 1 ml of antidote 6%. The victim must be taken to the hospital.

It is important that in such conditions the patient is provided with complete rest. He is provided with breathing with pure oxygen (partial pressure 1.5-2 atm.) Or carbogen (composition - 95% oxygen and 5% carbon dioxide). This procedure is carried out for 3-6 hours.

Further, it is important to ensure the restoration of the functions of the central nervous system and other organs. The treatment regimen prescribed by a specialist depends on how severe the patient's condition is and whether the pathological reactions that occurred after the poisoning are reversible.

In order to prevent natural gas and CO poisoning, it is important to follow very carefully those rules that will help prevent dangerous situations.

If there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning during certain work, they should only be carried out in rooms that are well ventilated.
Carefully check the dampers of fireplaces, stoves, do not close them completely until the firewood is burned.
In a room where CO poisoning can potentially occur, it is necessary to install autonomous gas detectors.
If possible contact with carbon monoxide is planned, one capsule should be taken. Acizola half an hour before such contact. The protective effect will last up to two and a half hours after taking the capsule.

Acizol is a domestically produced medicine that is an effective and fast-acting antidote against acute CO poisoning. It creates an obstacle in the body for the formation carboxyhemoglobin , and also speeds up the process of removing carbon monoxide.

The sooner Acizol is administered intramuscularly in case of poisoning, the greater the chances of a person to survive. Also, this medicine increases the effectiveness of those measures that will subsequently be taken for resuscitation and treatment.

conclusions

Thus, carbon monoxide poisoning is a very dangerous condition. The higher the gas concentration, the more likely the death. Therefore, it is very important to be extremely careful to comply with all the rules of prevention, and at the first suspicion of such poisoning, immediately call for emergency care.

Carbon monoxide is one of the most dangerous substances that a person encounters almost every day. In scanty doses and with short-term contact, it is possible to avoid a noticeable toxic effect on the body. If the concentration of CO in the air reaches 0.08%, mild poisoning is diagnosed. With an increase in the indicator to 0.32%, there is a violation of motor functions and loss of consciousness. At 1.2% concentration, death is possible after just a few minutes of inhaling polluted air.

The main dangers of carbon monoxide are as follows:

released during the combustion of any materials;
does not have recognizable signs: color, smell;
able to penetrate protective filters;
easily seeps through walls, soil, etc.

Diagnostics

With carbon monoxide poisoning, diagnosis is difficult due to the non-specificity of symptoms. The clinical picture in acute intoxication may look like a viral infection, alcohol intoxication, a disease of the central nervous system, fainting of unknown etiology.

An important role is played by the collection of anamnesis. For example, the appearance of the same symptoms in several patients admitted from the same place (participants in a fire, bus passengers).

Laboratory diagnostics consists in determining the level of carboxyhemoglobin in venous blood.

Hardware research can reveal symptoms of myocardial damage using ECG, brain - CT, MRI, kidneys, liver - ultrasound.

The effect of gas on the body

Carbon monoxide poisoning is very dangerous because its action affects blood cells - red blood cells. Accordingly, the effect of the toxin extends to the entire body at the cellular level.

Normally, erythrocytes supply oxygen molecules to the tissues, which bind with hemoglobin. This is a prerequisite for maintaining the vital activity of cells. When CO is inhaled, the gas forms a new compound, carboxyhemoglobin. This process causes the oxygen transfer to be blocked. The more "dead" red blood cells in the blood, the higher the degree of lack of vital molecules.

As a result, the body begins to experience oxygen starvation. The brain cells are the first to suffer from hypoxia, that is, the central nervous system is damaged. The heart and lungs are also affected. All this can cause a stop in their functioning and, as a result, the death of a person.

How does gas enter the body?

The main reason for the rapid death of the victim from CO2 is due to the fact that the gas completely blocks the flow of O2 to the cells of vital organs. At the same time, red blood cells (erythrocytes) die. Hypoxia sets in.

The first lack of air experience the cells of the brain and nervous system. There is a severe headache, vomiting, loss of balance. Toxic gas penetrates the protein of skeletal muscles and heart muscle. The rhythm of contractions gets off, the blood flows unevenly, the person begins to suffocate. The heart beats very weakly and often. Movements are hindered.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning

Although the presence of carbon monoxide itself cannot be recognized, the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are distinct. The intensity of their manifestation depends on the concentration of the toxic substance in the human body. All signs can be grouped according to systems that carbon monoxide has a negative impact on.

central nervous system

It is the CNS that is most affected. When normal red blood cells fill with carboxyhemoglobin, a person experiences the following symptoms:

dizziness;
nausea;
headache;
flashing before the eyes;
impaired coordination;
noise in ears;
vomit;
convulsions;
loss of consciousness.

Important: in severe cases, involuntary urination, bowel movements occur; the patient falls into a coma.

The cardiovascular system

The impact on the cardiovascular system is dangerous because its consequences can manifest themselves after the elimination of intoxication. The main symptoms of poisoning in this group are:

feeling of pressure in the region of the heart;
tachycardia (increased heart rate);
poorly palpable pulse;
lowering blood pressure;
increased risk of myocardial infarction;
heart failure.

Respiratory system

Oxygen deficiency provokes breathing problems in the victim. Depending on the degree of replacement of oxygen by carbon monoxide, the following symptoms develop:

dyspnea;
rapid breathing;
superficial movements of the chest;
interruptions and pauses in the respiratory rhythm;
complete cessation of breathing.

Skin and mucous membranes

Manifestations of poisoning on the skin are not so significant. With mild intoxication, the skin and mucous membranes turn red or acquire a bright pink hue. As the situation worsens, their condition changes: pallor appears, pinking becomes almost imperceptible.

First aid

What to do in case of carbon monoxide poisoning at home? The amount of first aid depends on the condition of the victim. The main question that needs to be addressed is whether it threatens human life.

With an average and severe degree of carbon monoxide poisoning, the first step is to call the ambulance service. However, with a mild degree of intoxication, there may also be indications for transportation to the hospital. For example, even mild signs of carbon monoxide poisoning in a fire require immediate hospitalization.

The algorithm of actions before the arrival of medical specialists is as follows:

first aid in case of carbon monoxide poisoning of a person consists in stopping the flow of poison into the body;
if possible, provide him with mental and physical rest;
do not give to drink;
in the absence of consciousness, give the burnt person a horizontal position, ensuring the patency of the respiratory tract;
before the arrival of the ambulance service, do not leave the victim unattended, control his consciousness, breathing, heart rate;
start cardiopulmonary resuscitation if there are signs of a terminal condition.

Also, depending on the circumstances:

take measures for their own safety;
ventilate the room, taking into account the possibility of the effect of "reverse casting";
block the flow of gas, burners, turn off the vehicle engine;
remove the victim from the affected area.

What to do with mild carbon monoxide poisoning? The victim must continue to be monitored. In case of negative dynamics of the state, it is necessary to seek help from medical specialists.

First aid for carbon monoxide poisoning

The severity of the consequences and his life as a whole depend on how quickly the victim will be helped.

Important: if carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected, an ambulance should be called immediately.

First aid measures are as follows:

Eliminate the influence of the source of carbon monoxide. It is advisable to take the victim to fresh air.
Provide as much oxygen as possible. To make breathing easier, remove any clothing that restricts chest movement.
Stimulate circulation. To do this, rubbing the chest is carried out, a drink is provided that stimulates vasodilation, for example, tea or coffee.
Prevent casualties from losing consciousness. To bring the patient to his senses, ammonia is used, you can also moisten his face and neck with cold water.
Start resuscitation if necessary. If respiratory arrest occurs or the pulse rate drops critically, it is necessary to perform artificial respiration and chest compressions.

What are the consequences of gas poisoning?

The most unpleasant consequence of carbon monoxide poisoning is the appearance of neuropsychic symptoms after a latent period of poisoning, which can last from 1 to 6 weeks. In 10-30% of people after severe carbon monoxide poisoning, symptoms occur in the form of memory impairment, personality changes, euphoria, lack of self-criticism and the ability to abstract thinking, inability to nitrate. Carbon monoxide poisoning in pregnant women poses a serious threat to the life and neuropsychic development of the child.

After CO poisoning, inflammatory processes in the respiratory tract often appear, and in severe cases, even pulmonary edema and pulmonary hemorrhage. In acute poisoning, toxic acute liver failure, skin and trophic disorders, renal failure, myoglobinuria, which occurs for no apparent reason, can occur. Sensory disturbances, especially hearing and vision, are possible.

Treatment

Further measures to remove carbon monoxide from the body and eliminate the consequences of poisoning are carried out in a hospital. Therapy is selected taking into account the severity of intoxication. To restore the normal functioning of all body systems, it is first necessary to compensate for the lack of oxygen. To combat hypoxia, the following methods are used:

oxygen mask;
inhalation of carbogen (a mixture of oxygen and carbon dioxide);
artificial ventilation of the lungs;
pressure chamber.

It is also mandatory to use the antidote CO - Acizol. To monitor the patient's condition and adjust therapy, it is necessary to conduct control blood tests for biochemical parameters. When the patient's condition stabilizes, you can start using drugs that stimulate respiratory and cardiac function. Further treatment is aimed at preventing the development of complications provoked by hypoxia.

Video with Elena Malysheva about carbon monoxide

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Possible consequences

Carbon monoxide intoxication in most cases leads to the development of complications. The consequences of poisoning appear in two stages.

Early complications are:

hearing disorders;
blurred vision;
neuritis;
disruption of the digestive tract;
exacerbation of mental illness;
bladder dysfunction;
pulmonary edema;
encephalopathy;
heart failure.

On average, after 1-6 weeks, late complications begin to appear. These include:

paresis and paralysis;
cognitive decline;
psychosis;
Parkinson's disease;
vision loss;
memory impairment;
pneumonia;
angina;
cardiac asthma;
myocardial infarction;
acute heart failure.

Complications and consequences

When breathing, carbon dioxide passes from the lungs into the blood in the same way that oxygen does, and enters into a chemical reaction with hemoglobin. As a result, instead of normal oxyhemoglobin, carboxyhemoglobin is formed in the following proportion - at a ratio of CO and air of 1/1500, half of the hemoglobin will turn into carboxyhemoglobin. This compound is not only unable to carry oxygen, but also prevents the release of the latter from oxyhemoglobin. As a result, oxygen starvation of the hemic type occurs.

The processes described above cause hypoxia, which negatively affects the work of all internal organs. Asphyxia is especially dangerous for the brain. It can cause both minor impairments to memory and thinking, and serious neurological or even psychiatric diseases.

Recently, British scientists from the University of Leeds, together with French colleagues, found that even minor carbon dioxide poisoning disrupts the heart rhythm, which can lead to serious consequences, including death.

Prevention

In order to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, it is necessary to take care of prevention in advance.

If it is necessary to carry out work related to contact with CO, it is necessary to use protective respirators with special filters or oxygen cylinders. At the same time, it is necessary to ensure good ventilation in the room.
When operating stoves or fireplaces, it is important to monitor the condition of the fuel materials and control the position of the dampers.
Before working with CO, to protect against the formation of a carboxyhemoglobin compound in the blood, the prophylactic use of Acizol is recommended.

Causes of poisoning

Where does carbon monoxide come from in houses, apartments, utility rooms, baths? The main source of air pollution is:

repair and maintenance of cars in garages with insufficient removal of carbon monoxide;
faulty stove heating appliances (wood or coal), kerosene burners, grills;
clogged chimneys;
poorly adjusted gas stoves, boilers;
violation of the rules for the operation of devices;
fires.

Carbon monoxide in the composition of the combustion products of gasoline can cause poisoning for the driver and passengers in the car. This is facilitated by insufficient ventilation and technical malfunctions of the car. The special insidiousness of carbon monoxide is manifested with the effect of "reverse casting". Under certain meteorological conditions, carbon monoxide from the exhaust pipe "spreads" along the ground. And even the poisonous gas diverted through the hose to the street easily penetrates back into the garage.

Carbon monoxide poisoning in the bath, possibly due to the fact that the stove is located directly in the steam room. The products of incomplete combustion of firewood are dangerous to humans.

Before using gas appliances, you need to familiarize yourself with the important points of the instructions: “how to safely turn off a faulty appliance”, “what phone number to call the rescue service”.

Conditions under which a person can be poisoned by carbon monoxide

Most often, CO poisoning occurs indoors during household fires. The risk group includes residents of private houses with gas or stove heating. An improperly designed air exchange system (ventilation, draft in chimneys) contributes to the accumulation of substances in the room.

For industrial purposes, carbon monoxide is used for the synthesis of organic compounds. In case of non-compliance and gross violation of safety regulations, the risk of poisoning among employees increases.

Carbon monoxide is a component of car exhaust. Therefore, you can get poisoned by the substance in a garage with insufficient ventilation, poor ventilation, in long tunnels, when you stay near highways and overloaded roads for a long time.

At home, you can get poisoned with open stove dampers, with a leak of lighting gas, which is used in heating systems in private buildings. There have been cases of intoxication in the abuse of hookah.

Formation of carboxyhemoglobin

The danger to humans and animals arises from the inhalation penetration of carbon monoxide into the body and is determined to a large extent by the affinity of CO with iron-containing compounds: hemoglobin, myoglobin, cytochrome enzymes that form reverse complexes. In particular, CO, interacting with hemoglobin, converts it into a state of carboxyhemoglobin (sleep). It is able to carry oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. Moreover, in the presence of dormouse, the dissociation of oxyhemoglobin into O2 and hemoglobin decreases. This makes it difficult to transport oxygen to tissues and negatively affects the activity of organs and systems of the body, primarily the brain and heart.

In persons who breathe air containing 0.1% CO, the level of sleepiness in the blood can reach 50%. Such a high level of this compound is facilitated by a significant affinity (affinity) of CO with hemoglobin, which is 220 times higher than the affinity of O2. The dissociation of carboxyhemoglobin is 3600 times slower than that of oxyhemoglobin. Its stability in the body creates the basis for the development of hemic and tissue hypoxia.

The antagonist of carbon monoxide in the body is oxygen. At an air pressure of 1 atm., TCO from the body is about 320 minutes, with inhalation of 100% oxygen - 80 minutes, and in a pressure chamber (2-3 atm.) - decreases to 20 minutes.

Features of intoxication in children

Intoxication of the child's body often happens deven at low concentrations of carbon monoxide in the air. In the absence of timely assistance, the child may die within 5-10 minutes.

Babies show the following symptoms:

sharp lacrimation;
feeling of suffocation;
reddish skin tone;
vomit;
sneezing
impaired coordination of movements;
frequent urge to yawn;
drop in body temperature;
edema;
lethargy and drowsiness.

Otherwise, the symptoms of poisoning are the same as in adults.

First aid

Timely and qualified provision of first aid in the vast majority of cases of carbon monoxide poisoning saves the life of the victim and significantly reduces the risk of developing numerous complications in the post-reactive period of the pathology.

The basic algorithm of first aid actions:

Introduction

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when a person inhales too much carbon monoxide (CO, carbon monoxide), a colorless, odorless gas produced when carbon-containing fuels such as gasoline, diesel fuel, fuel oil, natural gas, coal, and wood are burned.

Symptoms include headache, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. Excessive exposure to CO can lead to severe palpitations, convulsions, loss of consciousness and even death.

Carbon monoxide poisoning can be diagnosed with a CO oximeter, a non-invasive device that measures CO in the blood. Treatment usually involves the administration of pressurized oxygen through a non-circulating mask. In severe cases, treatment in a hyperbaric oxygen chamber may be required.

Symptoms

Carbon monoxide poisoning is a chameleon in the medical world. Its symptoms mimic many other conditions, and there is not a single symptom that is the gold standard of all carbon monoxide poisoning. In other words, its signs are very difficult to identify, but there are several manifestations that you should be aware of.

Frequent symptoms

The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are vague and associated with many conditions.

Early symptoms.

Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, creating a molecule called carboxyhemoglobin (COHb), which interferes with the body's ability to transport and use oxygen, especially in the brain. Because of this, symptoms are similar to other conditions that affect the brain and cause decreased oxygenation (known as "hypoxia"):

headache;
nausea;
dizziness;
fatigue.

Because it is a gas that tends to affect everyone who is exposed to it, carbon monoxide is easier to spot when symptoms affect multiple people at once. Due to its chameleon-like nature, it's still not an easy task, but headaches and nausea in isolation rarely lead anyone to think of carbon monoxide poisoning as the most likely culprit.

However, when carbon monoxide affects multiple patients at once, it is often identified as an "infection or malnutrition" rather than a suggestion of carbon monoxide exposure.

progressive symptoms.

As gas poisoning progresses, the symptoms become more severe, but are still extremely vague and difficult to identify as specific to carbon monoxide exposure:

confusion;
erratic breathing;
chest pain;
vomit;
blurring or double vision;
loss of consciousness.

There is no clear time frame to show how long it takes to go from headache to blackout. Exposure to carbon monoxide is time and concentration dependent, meaning that the amount of carbon monoxide in the air is just as important as how long the patient is exposed to it.

Rare Symptoms

Dark red, flushed skin (often referred to as cherry red) is one of the most tell-tale signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. This is due to the high level of carboxyhemoglobin in the blood.

Unfortunately, this bright red coloration is often found on post-mortem examination. The level of carbon monoxide in the blood required to give the skin this color is so high that it is almost always fatal.

Thus, excessively reddened skin is too late a sign to be useful in determining whether a patient is suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning. For successful treatment, gas poisoning must be detected long before the patient's body turns bright red.

Treatment of the consequences of poisoning with fumes can be carried out at home after the victim has received qualified help from specialists and permission is at home. To do this, you need to know what to do in case of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Treatment with folk methods is as effective as medication and is able to restore health in a short time. But it should be used under the supervision of doctors and after their approval.

Natural products are popular because of their safety and environmental friendliness. But each ingredient from traditional medicine recipes has certain properties that can ambiguously affect the human body.

Therefore, for safety reasons, it is better to get the approval of a doctor. The most effective means:

The use of infusion of cranberries and lingonberries. To prepare such a remedy, you need to mix 100 grams of dried cranberries and 200 grams of lingonberries. Grind the ingredients well and add 300 grams of boiling water. Infuse the medicine for at least two hours, strain and take 50 milliliters six times a day.

Knotweed infusion will help against carbon monoxide poisoning. It is used to quickly remove aggressive substances from the body. It will take two tablespoons of dry crushed raw materials and 0.5 liters of boiled hot water. Strain the infused broth and take 0.5 cup three times a day.

radiola rosea extract will help restore the activity of the body after suffering poisoning. An alcohol remedy can be bought at a pharmacy kiosk and taken 10 drops three times a day, previously dissolved in a small amount of water. It is important to ensure that the last appointment is no later than 19.00. Together with the tincture, you need to use sweetened water with honey.

Decoction of dandelion roots. It is an excellent antitoxic agent. For cooking, pour 6 grams of dried chopped raw materials with boiling water - 250 milliliters and cook for 15 minutes. Then insist the broth for half an hour, strain and add warm boiled water to the initial volume. Take a tablespoon in the morning, afternoon and evening.

A decoction of the hoof root. To prepare it, you need to take a tablespoon of raw materials, put in a saucepan and add 300 milliliters of cold water. Boil over low heat for at least 15 minutes, then strain the prepared remedy and take it warm. A single dose is 50 milliliters.

With pronounced symptoms of the patient, it is necessary to take it out to fresh air, wipe it with vinegar diluted with water 1: 1. Then this solution should be drunk, at a time 100 milliliters of liquid.

Therapeutic measures

In a medical institution, the victim is given complex therapy with the use of an oxygen cushion and intramuscular injection of the antidote "Acyzola". If necessary, doctors carry out resuscitation measures, and symptomatic therapy is prescribed.

As a rule, treatment at home is allowed only for the mildest forms of toxic effects of carbon dioxide that are not dangerous to the health and life of the victim. For this purpose, well-established and time-tested folk remedies are most often used in the form of safe and environmentally friendly natural products:

cranberry-lingonberry infusion based on 50 g of dried cranberries and 100 g of dried lingonberries, ground to a powder and poured with a glass of boiling water. The drug is infused for a couple of hours, filtered and taken 50 ml five to six times a day;
an infusion based on medicinal knotweed, which quickly removes aggressive and toxic substances. A couple of tablespoons of crushed vegetable raw materials are poured with half a liter of boiled water, infused and filtered, after which it is prescribed to patients in half a glass three times a day;
an extract based on pink radiola, which restores the body after toxic effects. Alcohol formulations are taken ten drops three times a day, after dissolving in a small amount of boiled water;
dandelion decoction, which is a means of antitoxic effects. To prepare 12 g of dried and crushed dandelion roots, pour about half a liter of boiling water and boil for a quarter of an hour over low heat. The broth is infused for half an hour, after which it is filtered and topped up with boiled water to the original volume. One tablespoon is taken three times a day.
decoction based on medicinal hoof. To prepare a tablespoon of pharmaceutical plant raw materials, you need to pour 1.5 glasses of cold drinking water and boil over low heat for about a quarter of an hour. The finished broth is taken warm, after straining, in the amount of 50 ml.

The presence of pronounced symptoms will require providing the victim with access to fresh air and rubbing the skin with an acetic solution in a 1: 1 ratio. A similar solution in the amount of half a glass is taken orally.

CO intoxication: obvious symptoms, irreversible consequences, risk groups and main causes

Symptoms

To properly help with carbon monoxide poisoning, you need to know the characteristic symptoms.

Obvious signs of mild carbon monoxide poisoning (chad):

migraine;
tapping in the temporal zone of the head;
choking cough;
severe dizziness;
bouts of vomiting;
nausea;
tearfulness;
severe pain in the chest area;
hallucinations, both visual and auditory;
purple color of the skin of the head;
hypertension;
tachycardia.

The following symptoms indicate an average degree of intoxication:

The following signs indicate acute poisoning:

fainting;
uncontrolled urination and defecation;
respiratory failure;
convulsions;
cyanosis of the skin and mucous membranes;
dilated pupils with poor response to light sources;
coma.

Untimely assistance leads to death.

Irreversible consequences

Carbon monoxide intoxication, alas, leaves behind a significant trace. In case of mild to moderate CO poisoning, a person can be pestered by:

acute continuous headache;
frequent dizziness;
nervous disorders;
memory loss;
stop in development.

In acute poisoning, the following are often observed:

circulatory disorders in the brain;
polyneuritis;
heart attack;
cerebral edema;
deterioration of hearing and vision (possible complete loss);
subarachnoid hemorrhage;
severe pneumonia (with long-term coma).

Complications are unpredictable and often, alas, lead to death.

At-risk groups

People are especially sensitive to carbon monoxide:

excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages;
addicted to tobacco products;
asthma sufferers;
exhausted by nervous or physical stress.

In addition, pregnant women and children are at risk. Be carefull.

The reasons

Poisoning often occurs due to:

faulty heated appliances used in baths, houses, garages and apartments;
violations of safety regulations for the use of a particular heating device;
long stay in rooms that are not ventilated;
presence in the center of smoldering of combustion products;
lack of good extraction.

In addition to these reasons, there are others, but these are the most common.

Reasons for the development of pathology

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs instantly. If you do not immediately provide emergency care correctly, a person dies after 3 minutes at a gas concentration in the air of 1.2%.

The body is affected instantly, as the substance is colorless and odorless. Even a gas mask cannot protect against harmful effects.

As a result of severe damage by exhaust gases, erythrocytes are the first to suffer. They cannot carry oxygen to tissues and organs, which leads to severe hypoxia. The rapid reaction of the nervous system to this condition malfunctions - these are the first symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Then the muscles of the heart and skeleton are affected. Therefore, the victim cannot move, and the heart does not pump blood well. Necessary actions in case of carbon monoxide poisoning should be carried out immediately. Otherwise, the consequences may become irreversible.

The most common causes of poisoning with this substance:

Carrying out car repairs in a room that is not ventilated. This provokes damage to the lungs by exhaust gases.
Operation of faulty heaters, poisoning with household gases.
The outbreak of a fire in an enclosed space.
Lack of good extraction.

Treatment at home with folk remedies

Attention! Treatment at home with the help of traditional medicine is allowed only after the provision of qualified assistance in the hospital and the approval of the doctor! Remember! Self-treatment without prior consultation can play a cruel joke!

Of course, natural products are known for absolute safety and environmental friendliness, but each ingredient intended for the preparation of a particular product is endowed with certain properties, which means that it can affect the human body in different ways!

The abnormal heat that came to the central region in mid-June led to natural fires in the Moscow region, where an emergency mode was introduced on Monday. As a result, residents of both the region and the capital have been suffering from acrid smoke for several weeks now.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas. The most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache, nausea, shortness of breath, dizziness, and confusion. A high concentration of gas immediately leads to death. A low one causes flu-like symptoms and is usually not recognized.

When carbon monoxide is inhaled, CO mixes with hemoglobin to form carboxyhemoglobin (COHb). CO replaces the oxygen attached to the carrier molecule, hemoglobin. The chemical bond of COHb is 200 times stronger than the bond of oxygen to hemoglobin. Therefore, the COHb bond makes it difficult for CO to leave the blood.

Carbon monoxide can poison the body slowly over 7 hours, even at low concentrations. The most sensitive organs, such as the brain, heart and lungs, suffer the most from lack of oxygen. Unfortunately, the symptoms of poisoning are easily confused with manifestations of other diseases, and poisoning with a low concentration of CO2 is almost impossible to determine at all.

The whole family feels bad at the same time;
. Flu-like symptoms improve when the person leaves the house;
. The disease is aggravated when gas appliances are used;
. There is excessive moisture on the inside of the window.

Carbon monoxide poisoning, even at low levels, increases the risk of hospitalization among older people with heart problems (data obtained from a study published in "Circulation, Journal of the American Heart Association" September 01, 2009). According to him, an increase in the concentration of carbon monoxide by 1% entails an increase in hospitalizations of patients over 65 years of age due to heart problems.

The long-term effects of carbon monoxide poisoning of any concentration can be very serious. As a result, CO can affect memory, brain function, behavior, and consciousness. It can also cause permanent damage to major organs (such as the heart).
Experts believe that the hippocampus, the part of the brain that deals with the transition of short-term memory to long-term memory, may be particularly affected by carbon monoxide.

Up to 40% of poisoned people may suffer from problems such as amnesia, headaches and memory loss, personal and behavioral changes, etc.

Many of the long-term effects may not appear immediately, but may take several weeks after poisoning.

Some of the effects of low carbon monoxide poisoning are still unknown, so it is sometimes difficult to say exactly what will happen to the victim in the future. Most patients fully recover from OS-related illnesses, however, some may suffer permanent effects for life.

The material was prepared on the basis of information from open sources