In severe cases, patients are treated in a hyperbaric chamber which forces carbon monoxide from the body. Oxygen and hyperbaric chambers, can reduce CO damage, speed recovery, and reduce medical problems. Loss of consciousness suggests high levels of carbon monoxide poisoning, and patients tend to have symptoms for several weeks. They will suffer from headache, fatigue, loss of memory, difficulty in thinking clearly, irrational behavior, and irritability. Recover can be slow and frustrating.
Some individuals suffer permanent brain and organ damage.
Victims may be highly sensitive to CO for the rest of their lives. A breath test can determine carbon monoxide levels. Medical laboratories can measure carboxyhemoglobin levels in the blood. Because the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning may last for months, normal carboxyhemoglobin levels in the blood 24 or more hours after exposure are not relevant. Check heating appliances by a qualified heating contractor.