This article discusses how to diagnose and test your home for carbon monoxide.
CO can build up in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces like homes and garages.
These devices are battery-operated.
© Verywell, 2018
CO detectors should be installed on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas.
Electrical Combustion Testing Instrument
Combustion testing equipment can be used to identify combustion problems in heating systems.
Diagnosing Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
There isn’t a self-diagnosis option for carbon monoxide poisoning.
Symptoms may include:
The level of carbon monoxide increases as symptoms become more severe.
Call 911 if you observe confusion or a loss of consciousness.
is complaining of headaches and nausea.
If you suspect CO poisoning, don’t attempt to drive; call an ambulance.
Carbon Monoxide in the Blood
Carbon monoxide (CO) binds to hemoglobin like oxygen does.
Hemoglobin that is attached to CO is called carboxyhemoglobin (COHgb).
As symptoms become more severe, the levels of carboxyhemoglobin (COHgb) increase in the blood.
It uses light waves (usually shone through the fingertips) to measure carbon monoxide saturation noninvasively.
Another form of noninvasive measurement uses exhaled air to determine levels of carbon monoxide.
Some research has found exhaled CO inaccurate as a determinant of carbon monoxide poisoning.
This makes it even more important to obtain a good history and physical examination of the patient.
Most other blood tests draw blood from the veins, which is easier and safer for the patient.
Arterial gasesrather than venousmeasure the potential for hemoglobin to supply oxygen and to remove carbon dioxide.
The most common is to look at the tissues through medical imaging.
The list of differential diagnoses is too broad to identify.
Each case is different and should be evaluated based on the patient’s presentation, history, and tests.
Summary
Testing for carbon monoxide includes measuring CO in the home and in the body.
This compound is formed when carbon monoxide binds withhemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Carbon monoxide poisoning basics.
U.S, Consumer Product Safety Commission.It’s time to change smoke and carbon monoxide alarm batteries.
Merck Manual Professional Version.Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
National Library of Medicine StatPearls.Cyanide toxicity.
