Therefore, it can kill before you even know it is there. Carbon monoxide is taken into the body by the lungs through breathing. Carbon monoxide prevents oxygen from saturating the blood cells and nourishing the body. Without oxygen-rich blood, the brain, heart, and other tissues will not survive. Smaller amounts of carbon monoxide damage the body.
Carbon monoxide is present wherever fuel is burned.
At low concentrations, fatigue in healthy people and chest pain in people with heart disease is often experienced. At higher concentrations, impaired vision and coordination, disorientation, weakness, headaches, dizziness, confusion, sleepiness, vomiting, and nausea are prevalent. The symptoms are easily and frequently diagnosed as being flu-like, clearing up after leaving the place where one is exposed. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal at high concentrations. Never use an unvented kerosene heater indoors.