Healthopedia.com - Your Health
Encyclopedia

Set Homepage Email Page Favorites      

 
  Home
  Health Centers
  Medical Encyclopedia
  Drugs & Medications
  Diseases & Conditions 
  Medical Symptoms
  Medical Tests & Exams
  Surgery & Procedures 
  Injuries & Wounds
  Diet & Nutrition
  Special Topics
  Pictures & Images      


Google
 
Web Healthopedia.com

You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Treatment & Monitoring
      Category : Health Centers > Poisoning and Toxicology

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Alternate Names : CO Poisoning

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Attribution


What are the treatments for the condition?

First, the person needs to be moved away from the CO and into fresh air. Further treatment depends on the extent of poisoning, but may include:

  • Oxygen through a tight-fitting mask
  • intravenous fluids
  • medicines such as steroids
  • a ventilator, which is an artificial breathing machine
  • sedatives to decrease any excitability caused by the CO buildup in the body
  • What are the side effects of the treatments?

    Side effects will depend on the treatments used. For instance, steroids may cause irritability, weight gain, or stomach upset. A ventilator can cause lasting lung problems.

    What happens after treatment for the condition?

    Often a person will get better with no need for further treatment. Physical therapy or other treatments may be needed for problems such as paralysis and memory loss.

    How is the condition monitored?

    Close monitoring is needed in cases of CO poisoning. Some people experience delayed symptoms, such as:

  • confusion
  • fatigue
  • memory loss
  • weakness
  • Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.


    Previous section

     

    Next section

    Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Prevention & Expectations

     

    Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Attribution

    Author: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
    Reviewer: Adam Brochert, MD
    Date Reviewed: 07/27/01









    Content provided by The Patient Marketing Group, Inc.

    Copyright © 2009 Healthopedia.com All Rights reserved.
    About Us | Help/FAQ | Privacy Policy | Editorial Policy | Advertising Policy | Accessibility | Terms of Use
    Contact Us | Link to Us

    HONcode accreditation seal.

    We comply with the HONcode standard for health trust worthy information: verify here.


    The information provided herein is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. The information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call your local emergency number for all medical emergencies. Use of this online service is subject to the disclaimer and the terms and conditions. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites.
    Page Last Updated: 6th April, 2009