Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is known as the silent killer because it is a tasteless, odorless, colorless gas. Most common household appliances produce carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide released by these appliances can start to accumulate and poison people who breathe it. People suffering from early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning such as fatigue, nausea and headaches often mistakenly believe that they have the flu, which can cause lethal gas to remain undetected. In many cases, CO leaks are a result of negligence or carelessness of property owners, maintenance companies or even product manufacturers that fail to take necessary safety precautions to prevent the release of carbon monoxide into enclosed spaces.

The Dietrich Law Firm P.C.’s team of Buffalo, New York carbon monoxide injury exposure attorneys is highly experienced, aggressive, tenacious and hardworking. We are determined, disciplined and dedicated to obtaining justice and compensation for those who suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning because of the fault of someone else in Buffalo, New York; Rochester, New York; Niagara Falls, New York; throughout New York State and beyond. Our Best Law Firm of America and American Institute of Personal Injury Attorneys 10 Best Personal Injury Law Firm will fight to obtain the best result for your carbon monoxide poisoning-related health problems. Insurance companies have paid Jed Dietrich, Esq. at least $1,000,000.00, or more, 38 times to compensate his clients for their personal injuries. We can be reached 24 hours per day and 7 days per week. Call us today at 716-839-3939 for your complimentary consultation.

Carbon monoxide prevents the body from attaining vital oxygen. CO exposure is most commonly associated with the following symptoms:

1. Nausea and vomiting;
2. Headaches;
3. Dizziness, light-headedness and fainting;
4. Slowed reaction time;
5. Flu-like symptoms;
6. Fatigue and drowsiness;
7. Shortness of breath from exertion;
8. Chest pain and tightness;
9. Seizures;
10. Impaired judgment;
11. Confusion;
12. Depression;
13. Agitation;
14. Hallucinations;
15. Blurred vision and other changes in eyesight;
16. Memory problems; and
17. Overall weakness, loss of muscle control and difficulty walking.

Victims that breathe in high amounts of CO may lose consciousness, and prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide can even result in severe brain damage and even death. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have potentially been exposed to carbon monoxide, it is best to consult with a doctor to determine the best treatment for you.

Early symptoms of CO poisoning are often similar to the flu, but the following clues can assist in properly identifying symptoms that result from carbon monoxide poisoning:

1. Rule out exposure: If more than one member of a household becomes sick at the same time, such as experiencing a headache or dizziness, leave the residence. If both individuals start to feel better soon after leaving, CO exposure should be suspected.
2. Watch out for worsening symptoms: If any of the above symptoms start to arise or become worse after turning on a fuel-burning device such as a car, generator or grill, that device should be thoroughly checked for leaks.
3. Pay attention to the location: When symptoms are brought on or worsen by being in a certain place, but disappear soon after leaving that location, that area should be carefully inspected for carbon monoxide leaks.

Under New York State law, carbon monoxide alarms are required in both single and multi-family residences, as well as in multiple dwellings such as hotels, townhouses, apartment buildings, condominiums and school dormitories. The best way to protect yourself against carbon monoxide poisoning is by installing a carbon monoxide alarm on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide alarms work similarly to smoke detectors and beep when its sensors detect any CO. If the carbon monoxide alarm goes off, turn off the source of CO, if known. It is important to keep in mind that you cannot smell carbon monoxide and as symptoms worsen, you may become more confused and less capable of making critical life-saving decisions. Quickly evacuate the location, moving outside to fresh air. Leave the doors open on the way out to air out the place. Anyone displaying symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning should seek emergency medical treatment immediately. Lastly, contact the local fire department to inspect your home.

If you, or a loved one, have suffered serious health problems or other injuries due to carbon monoxide exposure caused by someone else’s negligence, you should contact Jed Dietrich, Esq. and his top rated team of carbon monoxide exposure injury lawyers in Buffalo, New York at the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. to learn more about your legal rights. You may have a legal right to compensation for the injures that you have suffered.

Call the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. immediately at 716-839-3939 so that our aggressive, tenacious and hardworking personal injury lawyers can fight to obtain the best result for your personal injury claim in Buffalo, New York. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and there is never a fee until we WIN for you!