It is sometimes difficult to determine if carbon monoxide is the culprit, because its symptoms are similar to flu and allergies. Low levels can cause nausea, dizziness, weakness and muscle ache.
Higher doses can impair judgement, cause paralysis or coma and death.
There are carbon monoxide detectors you can install, which will alert you to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. It is important to choose and place a detector wisely and maintain it to assure accurate sensing of carbon monoxide. If you feel bad only when you are inside the home and the symptoms gradually disappear after you have left, or if more than one person in the home has similar symptoms, then you may have a problem with carbon monoxide. Remember carbon monoxide related symptoms are similar to those of the flu. Reduce the risk of carbon monoxide by keeping all combustion equipment well maintained and inspected for safety.