What Are The Signs of Carbon Monoxide Exposure
Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas. In the United States it is the number one cause of unintentional poisoning. Individuals that have been exposed may die or left with life-time injuries. The real threat is that carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms are not always recognized.
In Texas, as of April 2018, any residential structure the uses gas or a gas appliance, must use a carbon monoxide detector. This is according the Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 766. If the weather is cold this can further your chances of exposure.
The signs of carbon monoxide poisoning may be mistaken for a generalized illness. Some symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure are:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Light Headedness
- Flu-Like Symptoms
In many cases, carbon monoxide leaks may be caused by the negligence of another person or corporation. Walker Texas Lawyer can review your Texas Carbon Monoxide claim. James Walker is Houston’s Personal Injury Attorney. If you believe you or a loved one has been exposed, call us today for a free case review.
Carbon Monoxide Leak Exposure
Carbon monoxide leaks are often called the “silent killer” because the symptoms of CO poisoning are so difficult to detect. Therefore, the risk of serious injury or death is high because warning signs are often missed.
Each year there are at least 500 deaths due to the “silent killer”. This is according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Furthermore, they are around 15,000 treated for carbon monoxide poisoning, each year. These are often due to apartment or at work leaks.
The reason this is considered the “silent killer” is that carbon monoxide prevents oxygen from reaching the brain. This can leave you with permenant brain damage. Additionally, the inhalation of CO gas may interfere with the body’s ability to supply oxygen to other vital organs. This may cause:
- Cognitive Impairment
- Lack of Energy or Focus
- Heart Problems
- Suffocation
- Coma
- Death
Warning Signs Of Exposure
Carbon monoxide exposure symptoms can begin at low levels of exposure. This can occur with exposure as low as 35 parts per million. This will cause individuals to suffer headaches. As the levels rise, sometimes the symptoms of fatigue and nausea set in. Many mistake these symptoms for the flu. This can often lead to carbon monoxide poisoning misdiagnosis. Even doctors can have trouble making a carbon monoxide poisoning diagnosis.
Experts say two sure signs that carbon monoxide may be at play is when multiple people in the same building experience similar symptoms at the same time. Another sign is that the symptoms seem to disappear or lessen when the person leaves a certain area and gets fresh air. Yet, the most certain and approved means of detection is through a carbon monoxide detector and alarm. This is required in Texas law for residential buildings using gas since 2018.
Lawsuits For Carbon Monoxide Exposure Problems
Faulty appliances, unvented fuel-powered heaters, clogged chimneys are often the cause of carbon dioxide expose. Additionally blocked exhaust vents can be a cause. These issues can often be detected by proper inspections, maintenance or repairs.
The use of a carbon monoxide detector is one of the best ways to reduce the risks associated with exposure. It can allow you to discover a leak before getting any CO exposure. However, in some cases a CO detector may have been improperly installed or not present at all.
Through a carbon monoxide leak lawsuit, financial compensation may be available if responsibility for the exposure can be linked to the negligence of a landlord, property owner, builder, contractor or service company.
Walker Texas Lawyer has experience with these types of cases. He has successfully won judgements in such cases. If you have experienced serious medical problems from carbon monoxide exposure, due to the negligence of another person or corporation call us today. With Walker Texas Lawyer, You Do Not Pay, Unless We Win. You will not occur out-of-pocket expenses to hire James Walker. Call Us Today for your free case consultation.
