Exposure to carbon monoxide can be lethal. Taking steps to prevent and detect carbon monoxide exposure is important to ensure a healthy home environment. This is a good time for people to make sure they are properly protected. Carbon monoxide is the product of incomplete combustion of fuel. The gas is also emitted from burning charcoal and car exhaust.
Carbon monoxide impairs the body's ability to use oxygen.
Symptoms of early or mild carbon monoxide poisoning often resemble the flu. People may experience a headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, irregular breathing or flushing of the skin. It can progress to loss of consciousness, brain damage and death. Those with respiratory or cardiovascular problems are more likely to be affected by carbon monoxide exposure, as are fetuses, infants and seniors. Kaufman points out that carbon monoxide poisoning can be so mild that many people may not notice the initial signs.