Carbon monoxide (carbon monoxide poisoning)
Carbon monoxide is a very toxic gas. Carbon monoxide is formed by incomplete combustion, for example during a fire or in propane-powered appliances.
If you are a healthcare professional and would like more detailed information on carbon monoxide, see our treatment recommendations in the Health Library (in Norwegian).
Confined and poorly ventilated rooms can become a death trap
Many people are aware that carbon monoxide (CO) is produced when carbon-based fuels such as oil, wood and coal do not burn fully. However, carbon monoxide can also form and cause poisoning in other situations and under other conditions.
Use of petrol/diesel engines, charcoal barbecues, etc.
When using diesel/petrol engines (generators, chainsaws, etc.) and charcoal barbecues/disposable barbecues in confined or airtight rooms, dangerous quantities of carbon monoxide can form rapidly.
Many cases of severe poisoning have taken place as a result of using a diesel or petrol generator in a basement, or when barbecuing in an awning/tent/under a canopy on a boat or indoors.
Petrol/diesel engines, charcoal barbecues, etc. must therefore only be used outdoors.
Indoor use of propane appliances
Defective propane appliances, such as hot water heaters in holiday cabins, can also rapidly generate large amounts of carbon monoxide.
It is important to make sure that indoor appliances/equipment that uses propane are installed correctly. Equipment should also be regularly checked and maintained to prevent situations which could lead to poisoning.
How does carbon monoxide affect the body?
Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas. Dangerous concentrations can be present without any smoke being visible. Many cases of poisoning occur when people are asleep.
The mechanisms involved in CO poisoning are complicated, but are partly due to the fact that CO binds itself to the haemoglobin in the red blood cells and prevents oxygen transport. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning often non-specific.
Common symptoms are:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Lethargy
In severe cases, poisoning can lead to coma, respiratory arrest, cardiac arrest, convulsions, lasting damage to the nervous system, brain damage and death.
Avoiding carbon monoxide poisoning
It is important to be aware of the factors that can lead to poisoning in order to prevent poisoning and death.
- Make sure you are using equipment and appliances correctly. Do not use generators, primus stoves, barbecues, etc. indoors, in poorly ventilated rooms, tents, etc.
- If the appliance is intended for indoor use, ensure that the room is well-ventliated.
- Turn off appliances before going to sleep.
- Regularly check and maintain equipment. Seek advice from professionals.
- It is advisable to install a carbon monoxide alarm in holiday cabins, pleasure craft, etc. where gas or generators are used for heating and cooking purposes.
First aid following poisoning
- In the event of severe symptoms, call 113. The Emergency Medical Communication Centres (AMK) offer guidance concerning first aid.
- Avoid further exposure; remove the patient from the source and ensure good ventilation.
- Pregnant women should be monitored, even in the case of mild symptoms. This is because unborn children are more sensitive to carbon monoxide poisoning, and separate guidelines have been issued for pregnant women.
- Children, the elderly, anyone with cardiovascular disease, lung disease, etc. may also be more prone to carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Contact the Norwegian Poison Information Centre on 22 59 13 00 for advice on further follow-up and treatment. The Norwegian Poison Information Centre is open 24 hours a day, all year round, and provides advice and guidance in connection with suspected cases of acute poisoning to both the general public and health professionals.