A common symptom of carbon monoxide poisoning is often?

• A. Headache
• B. Nausea
• C. Dizziness
• D. Shortness of breath

Answer: (A)

Recognizing signs of carbon monoxide exposure hinges on how CO interferes with oxygen delivery. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin with a much higher affinity than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin and reducing the blood’s ability to carry oxygen to tissues. The brain is especially sensitive to oxygen deprivation, so headaches become a common early symptom as the brain starts to suffer from hypoxia. Other symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath can occur as well, but headache is one of the most frequently reported early signs. Remember, carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, so exposure often goes unnoticed and can come from sources like car exhaust, heaters, or generators.