Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin 200x more readily than oxygen. HBOT rapidly displaces CO and prevents neurological damage.
What is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas produced by burning fuel. When inhaled, it binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells much more readily than oxygen, preventing your blood from carrying oxygen to tissues.
Every year, thousands of people are treated for CO poisoning from sources like malfunctioning furnaces, car exhaust, generators, and house fires. Without treatment, CO poisoning can cause permanent brain damage or death.
Even after CO exposure ends, damage can continue. Delayed neurological sequelae (DNS) can develop days to weeks after apparent recovery, causing cognitive problems, memory loss, and movement disorders.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, seek medical attention. Early intervention is critical for many of these conditions.
- Headache
- Dizziness and confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Shortness of breath
- Blurred vision
- Loss of consciousness
- Cherry-red skin (rare, late sign)
- Seizures
Common Sources of CO Exposure
Common sources include gas furnaces and water heaters, blocked chimneys, car exhaust in enclosed spaces, portable generators, and charcoal grills used indoors.
House fires are a major source of CO poisoning, often complicated by cyanide poisoning from burning synthetic materials.
Comprehensive Treatment Approach
Carbon monoxide poisoning treatment begins with removing the patient from exposure and providing high-flow oxygen. Additional supportive care addresses symptoms and prevents complications.
100% Oxygen Therapy
Immediate high-flow oxygen via non-rebreather mask accelerates CO elimination from the bloodstream.
Cardiac Monitoring
Continuous ECG monitoring for arrhythmias, as CO poisoning can cause cardiac injury.
Neurological Assessment
Serial neurological exams to detect delayed neurological sequelae requiring additional treatment.
Psychiatric Evaluation
Screening for intentional exposure and mental health support when indicated.
How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Helps
HBOT accelerates the elimination of carbon monoxide from the body. While breathing normal air, CO takes 4-6 hours to clear; with 100% oxygen at sea level, 60-90 minutes; with HBOT at 3 ATA, just 20-25 minutes.
More importantly, HBOT prevents delayed neurological complications by reducing inflammation, preventing lipid peroxidation in the brain, and inhibiting leukocyte adhesion that causes secondary brain injury.
Key Benefits of HBOT for CO Poisoning
Treatment Protocol
Treatment typically involves one to three sessions at 2.4-3.0 ATA within 24 hours of exposure. Pregnant women and patients with loss of consciousness, cardiac symptoms, or neurological findings require HBOT regardless of CO levels.
Early treatment is critical—outcomes are significantly better when HBOT is administered within 6 hours of exposure.
Ready to Explore HBOT?
Schedule a consultation with our hyperbaric medicine specialists to discuss whether HBOT may be right for your condition.