A recent research study revealed that heart patients' emergency room admissions had a small but significant correlation with changes in the outdoor levels of carbon monoxide. It was concluded that episodes of elevated outdoor CO can trigger emergencies in some heart patients exposed to this gas. It is possible that elevated indoor CO levels may likewise trigger problems in some heart patients. There are many possibilities for carbon monoxide entry and accumulation in homes. Burning fuel for heating or cooking is the main source.
Problems arise when combustion gases accumulate in buildings.
An operating fireplace can also have significant interactions with the flue dynamics of other heating appliances and backdrafting may result. However, some blue flames produce elevated CO levels as well, while some new appliances normally have a yellow flame. CO bonds tightly to the hemoglobin in red blood cells, preventing them from carrying oxygen throughout the body. Levels of CO that can result from common household sources may cause nausea, dizziness, muscle aches, vomiting, and a general weakness throughout the body. These symptoms resemble the flu or food poisoning, and CO exposure is often mistaken for these illnesses.