Carbon Monoxide Poisoning – What to Look For

Carbon monoxide poisoning is such a deadly threat to the occupants of a home because its effects occur slowly and are often mistaken for something else because the gas is odorless. When one member of your family complains of not feeling well, that person is probably suffering from a minor illness. However, if everyone in the home is suffering from similar ailments, it is a good idea to have the home checked for carbon monoxide leaks.

It is important to recognize the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you and your family have been exposed to a low level of carbon monoxide, you can expect to experience shortness of breath, mild nausea, and mild headaches. These symptoms are generally dismissed as "one of those days" and not given a second thought since the symptoms will disappear once you leave the home for a while and make take some time to return.

Moderate levels of carbon monoxide can lead to severe headaches, strong nausea, dizzy spells, and lightheadedness. These symptoms are quite noticeable but are often attributed to simply not feeling well, as in the early stages of the flu or another relatively minor ailment. High levels of carbon monoxide can cause death within a matter of minutes.

If you and your family just aren’t feeling well, it might be a good idea to have a plumber come in and test your home for carbon monoxide leaks. You’ll feel better and live longer.