Winter woes: Docs advise precautions as carbon monoxide poisoning cases rise in valley

Srinagar, Jan 04: Doctors in Kashmir have advised people to take precautions given the increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning as such cases have seen a drastic rise with many patients requiring emergency intervention at SKIMS Soura.
“In light of a concerning increase in cases of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning recently reported within our community, we urge all residents to take immediate precautions to protect themselves and their families,” said an advisory issued by the Critical Care Department, SKIMS Soura.
As per doctors, carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless and tasteless gas that can be deadly if inhaled in large amounts.
“The number of individuals treated for CO poisoning in our critical care units has risen drastically, with many patients requiring emergency intervention,” the advisory said.
Dr Masood Rashid, Critical Care Expert, Anaesthesiologist, J&K Health Department said incomplete combustion of fuels leads to accumulation of carbon monoxide accumulation.
“Carbon monoxide is tasteless and it can kill a person within minutes. It occurs when ventilation of the room is poor or when no fresh oxygen is available for vital organs,” he said.
Dr Masood said people should not use any type of fuel burner like generator or gas stoves or gas heaters in closed spaces. “Be careful to avoid such things, use them for some time and allow ventilation. Never use them overnight,” he said.
He said many people take medicine for depression, anxiety and insomnia. “They are all sedatives. People fall asleep due to these medicines and simulation use of gas portable room heater (bukhari) can prove fatal,” he said.
What is Carbon Monoxide poisoning?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as gas, oil, coal, wood, or charcoal are burned. Inhalation of high levels of CO can cause headaches, dizziness, confusion, chest pain, nausea, and even loss of consciousness or death. If not detected early, poisoning can be fatal.
Key Safety Tips to Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
1. Install carbon monoxide detectors: Place detectors in key areas of your home, especially near sleeping areas and ensure they are in working order with fresh batteries.
2. Never use generators indoors: Always operate generators outdoors, away from windows, doors, and vents.
3. Avoid using charcoal or gas geysers and heaters indoors: These can quickly build up dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
4. Ventilate your home properly: Ensure adequate airflow in areas with fuel-burning appliances, like gas heaters or stoves.
5. Check chimneys and vents: Ensure that chimneys, fireplaces, and vents are unobstructed to allow for the proper expulsion of gases.
6. Never leave your car running in a closed garage: Always ensure the garage door is open when operating a vehicle indoors, or better yet, avoid running a car inside a garage entirely.
7. Regular maintenance: Have your heating systems, water heaters, and other fuel-burning appliances regularly serviced by a professional.
What to do in case of suspected poisoning:
Evacuate immediately: Leave the area and get fresh air.
Call emergency services: Seek medical help immediately. Time is critical in cases of carbon monoxide poisoning. Avoid re-entering the affected area until professional help has deemed it safe.
Important reminder:
The increase in carbon monoxide poisoning cases is alarming, and prevention is essential. By taking these simple safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of exposure and protect your loved ones from harm.
Who is at Risk?
• Households using gas heaters, stoves, or fireplaces
• Vehicles running in closed garages
• Use of generators or grills indoors
• Workplaces with poor ventilation, especially in confined spaces
As per the advisory, its signs and symptoms include headaches, dizziness or light-headedness, nausea and vomiting, fatigue or weakness, shortness of breath, confusion or mental disorientation and in severe cases it can cause chest pain. If you experience any of these symptoms, leave the area immediately and seek medical attention.