Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can cause serious harm. Many household appliances can release carbon monoxide, particularly if they are broken, aging, or have a hidden defect. Gas stoves, space heaters, furnaces, and other sources of combustion can all cause a buildup of CO fumes that can cause poisoning.
CO poisoning occurs when carbon monoxide is breathed in. As CO hits the lungs and enters the bloodsteam, red blood cells pick up CO more quickly than they pick up oxygen. The carbon monoxide molecules can “crowd out” the oxygen molecules in the blood, causing asphyxiation, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Early symptoms of CO poisoning include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, headache, confusion, and chest pain. Over 4,000 U.S. residents die of CO poisoning each year, and another 20,000 visit hospital emergency rooms.
Carbon monoxide has no color or smell, although a defective household appliance like a gas refrigerator might emit an odd smell if it is broken in a way that will also release carbon monoxide. A battery-operated CO detector can help protect your family by alerting you to CO emissions from defective or broken appliances before you start suffering symptoms.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause serious injuries. At Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers, a knowledgeable San Diego product defect lawyer can help you determine how your CO poisoning occurred and how to get the compensation you need – and then fight for you to obtain it. For a free, confidential telephone consultation, call us today at (888) 233-5020.
