Wilderness: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Black Widow vs. Brown Recluse Slideshow

• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Overview
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Treatment
• When to Seek Medical Care
• For More Information
• Web Links
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Overview

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin, which is the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in the body. In many cases, exposure to carbon monoxide goes unnoticed initially and can cause serious or fatal illness due to oxygen displacement.

Kerosene lamps, space heaters, wood fires, and other sources of combustion operated in enclosed areas generate and trap carbon monoxide.