Invisible "fatal threat"-prevention and treatment of carbon monoxide poisoning encephalopathy

Author: Guo Yanli, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University

Reviewer: Deng Wenjing, Chief Physician, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, non-irritating gas that can be a deadly killer without you realizing it. Carbon monoxide poisoning, also known as gas poisoning, is a common accident, especially in winter when using coal stoves, gas water heaters and other equipment. When the human body inhales excessive amounts of carbon monoxide, it may cause carbon monoxide encephalopathy, a serious neurological disease that requires us to be highly vigilant.

Figure 1 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

1. Where does the toxicity of carbon monoxide come from?

The toxicity of carbon monoxide mainly comes from its high affinity with hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in the blood that carries oxygen. When carbon monoxide enters the human body, it quickly binds to hemoglobin to form carboxyhemoglobin, which has an affinity 200 to 300 times higher than that of oxygen. This causes hemoglobin to be unable to carry oxygen normally, thus causing tissue hypoxia, especially the brain, which has a very high demand for oxygen.

2. What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning encephalopathy?

Symptoms of carbon monoxide encephalopathy may vary from person to person, but common symptoms include:

1. Headache: Due to lack of oxygen to the brain, the patient may experience severe headache.

2. Nausea and vomiting: Lack of oxygen can affect the digestive system, leading to nausea and vomiting.

3. Dizziness and loss of balance: The balance center of the brain is affected, which may cause dizziness and loss of balance.

4. Confusion: As hypoxia worsens, the patient may become confused or even fall into a coma.

5. Convulsions and epileptic seizures: Severe hypoxia may cause nervous system dysfunction, leading to convulsions and epileptic seizures.

3. How to determine whether it is carbon monoxide poisoning?

1. Medical history: Understand whether the patient may have been exposed to carbon monoxide.

2. Blood test: Carboxyhemoglobin levels are tested in the blood to determine if carbon monoxide poisoning has occurred.

3. Neurological examination: Assess the patient's level of consciousness, reflexes, muscle strength, etc.

4. Imaging examinations: such as CT or MRI, to observe whether there is any damage to the brain.

4. Prevention strategies for carbon monoxide toxic encephalopathy

1. Install a carbon monoxide alarm: Installing a carbon monoxide alarm at home can sound an alarm in time when the carbon monoxide concentration exceeds the standard.

2. Check your equipment regularly: Check your gas appliances and chimneys regularly to make sure they are working properly and there are no leaks.

3. Maintain ventilation: When using gas equipment, ensure that the room is well ventilated.

Figure 2 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

5. What should I do if carbon monoxide poisoning occurs?

1. Evacuate immediately: Once carbon monoxide poisoning is discovered, the patient should be immediately removed from the contaminated environment and transferred to fresh air.

2. Give high-flow oxygen: While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, give the patient high-flow oxygen.

3. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: In the hospital, patients may receive hyperbaric oxygen therapy to speed up the excretion of carbon monoxide and the delivery of oxygen.

4. Supportive care: This includes maintaining blood pressure, body temperature, and electrolyte balance, as well as treating any complications.

Figure 3 Copyright image, no permission to reprint

VI. Summary

Carbon monoxide encephalopathy is a serious health threat, but with the right precautions and prompt treatment, we can significantly reduce its risks and impacts. Knowing the symptoms and prevention methods of carbon monoxide poisoning is an important step in keeping yourself and your family safe. Remember, carbon monoxide is an invisible killer, but with awareness and prevention, we can avoid its fatal blow.

Safety Tip: If you suspect you or someone else may be suffering from carbon monoxide poisoning, seek medical help immediately. Do not hesitate, every minute counts.