Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas produced by burning chemicals containing carbon. Poisoning from carbon monoxide fumes can cause severe brain damage and even death. The death toll attributed to this hard-to-detect poison is nearly 500 victims each year.

Where it Comes From

The most common sources of carbon monoxide poisoning are automobile exhaust, smoke from fires and explosions, engine fumes, and non-electric heaters. Risks for exposure include:

• Industrial workers at pulp mills, steel foundries, and plants producing formaldehyde or coke (a hard grey fuel)
• Personnel at fire scenes
• Those working indoors with combustion engines or combustible gases

Signs and Symptoms

Exposure to carbon monoxide gases is most commonly associated with symptoms like headaches, dizziness, chest pain, vomiting, and memory difficulty. If you, your loved ones, or pets are exhibiting any of these signs, you should visit a hospital immediately. A blood test is the most foolproof way to detect for carbon monoxide in the body.

Treatment

Treatment for carbon monoxide poisoning typically involves giving the victim a high amount of oxygen via a face mask. In cases of severe poisoning, a hyperbaric pressure chamber may be used to give even higher doses of oxygen. Finding the source of the poison is very critical to maintaining health and preventing future incidents. The local fire department or public service company should help you find the source to make sure your building is safe.

If you have suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning, contact a Rhinelander personal injury attorney for more information about your legal options. Call 715-365-1900 today.