About Us | Privacy | Site Map
Font Size
A
A
A

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning (cont.)

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Causes

Carbon monoxide is formed when organic compounds burn. The most common sources are motor vehicle exhaust, smoke from fires, engine fumes, and nonelectric heaters. Carbon monoxide poisoning is often associated with malfunctioning or obstructed exhaust systems and with suicide attempts.

Sources of carbon monoxide:

  • Gas water heaters

  • Kerosene space heaters

  • Charcoal grills

  • Propane heaters and stoves

  • Gasoline and diesel powered generators

  • Cigarette smoke

  • Propane-fueled forklifts

  • Gasoline powered concrete saws

  • Indoor tractor pulls

  • Any boat with an engine

  • Spray paint, solvents, degreasers, and paint removers

Risks for exposure to carbon monoxide include:

  • Children riding in the back of enclosed pickup trucks (particularly high risk)

  • Industrial workers at pulp mills, steel foundries, and plants producing formaldehyde or coke (a hard grey fuel)

  • Personnel at fire scenes

  • Using heating sources or electric generators during power outages

  • Those working indoors with combustion engines or combustible gases

  • Swimming near or under the stern or swim-step of a boat with the boat engine running

  • Back drafting when a boat is operated at a high bow angle

  • Mooring next to a boat that is running a generator or engine

  • Improper boat ventilation



    Next: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Symptoms »

    Viewer Comments & Reviews

    Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

    The eMedicineHealth physician editors ask:

    What was your experience with carbon monoxide poisoning?

    Anonymously share your comment to help others. Viewer Comments FAQs
    Be the first to submit a comment

    Submit Your Review


    Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

    Women's Health

    Find out what women really need.

    Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz




    Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

    Toxicity, Carbon Monoxide »

    Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion of carbonaceous material.

    Read More on eMedicine »

    Medical Dictionary