A common question about carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is whether it causes eye burning. Carbon monoxide does not directly cause eye burning. Known as the “silent killer,” this colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas has subtle, non-specific initial symptoms, unlike irritants that immediately affect the eyes.
The Real Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning often resemble those of other common illnesses, making diagnosis challenging. Individuals exposed to CO may experience a headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, or vomiting. These symptoms can be easily mistaken for the flu, food poisoning, or gastroenteritis, especially since CO poisoning does not cause a fever.
As exposure continues or the concentration of carbon monoxide increases, symptoms can worsen. Shortness of breath, confusion, and impaired coordination are possible. In more severe cases, CO poisoning can lead to blurred vision, loss of consciousness, seizures, or chest pain. While some might report eye irritation at lower exposure, a direct burning sensation is not a primary symptom.
Why Carbon Monoxide is Dangerous
Carbon monoxide is dangerous because it is imperceptible—colorless, odorless, and tasteless. This allows it to accumulate to dangerous levels indoors undetected. CO is produced when fuels like wood, gasoline, natural gas, propane, or kerosene burn incompletely.
Once inhaled, carbon monoxide enters the bloodstream and binds with hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. CO binds to hemoglobin much more readily than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin. This displaces oxygen, preventing vital organs like the brain and heart from receiving needed oxygen.
Immediate Steps if You Suspect Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
If CO poisoning is suspected, immediate action is necessary. First, move yourself and anyone else to fresh air immediately. Go outdoors or open all doors and windows to ventilate the area.
Once safely in fresh air, contact emergency services, such as 911, without delay. It is important to inform them that carbon monoxide poisoning is suspected. Do not re-enter the building until emergency responders have arrived and confirmed that it is safe to do so. Professional assessment is necessary, even if symptoms improve after reaching fresh air.
Preventing Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Preventing CO exposure requires proactive measures and proper equipment maintenance. Installing carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home and near sleeping areas is a primary safety step. Test detectors monthly and replace them according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Regular maintenance of fuel-burning appliances is also important. Furnaces, water heaters, gas stoves, fireplaces, and other appliances that burn fuel should be inspected annually by a qualified technician. Never use generators, charcoal grills, or gas-powered tools indoors or in enclosed spaces like garages, as they produce high levels of CO. Even with garage doors open, carbon monoxide can quickly reach dangerous concentrations.