WEBINAR- CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING & OXYGEN THERAPY- ON DEMAND

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a life-threatening condition caused by inhaling carbon monoxide gas, a colorless, odorless, and tasteless toxin. Once inhaled, CO binds to hemoglobin with an affinity over 200 times greater than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin and reducing the blood’s ability to carry oxygen. This results in tissue hypoxia, leading to symptoms such as headache, dizziness, confusion, chest pain, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness or death.

Oxygen therapy is the cornerstone of treatment. Administration of 100% oxygen significantly decreases the half-life of carboxyhemoglobin, accelerating the elimination of CO from the body. In more severe cases—particularly those involving neurological symptoms, cardiovascular instability, or pregnancy—hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) therapy may be indicated. HBO delivers oxygen at higher-than-atmospheric pressures, enhancing oxygen delivery to hypoxic tissues and reducing long-term neurological damage.

This course explores the pathophysiology of CO poisoning, clinical recognition, diagnostic approaches, and evidence-based management strategies, with a focus on the critical role of oxygen therapy in reducing morbidity and saving lives.