Carbon monoxide (CO) is invisible, odorless, and dangerous. It is one of the few conditions where hyperbaric oxygen therapy is used as an emergency, potentially life-saving treatment — not an elective one.
What CO does to the body
Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin more than 200 times more readily than oxygen, so even small amounts crowd oxygen out of the blood and starve tissues — especially the brain and heart. Beyond the immediate danger, CO poisoning can cause delayed neurological effects — problems with memory, concentration, and mood that can appear days to weeks later.
How HBOT helps
Breathing 100% oxygen under pressure clears carbon monoxide from the blood many times faster than room air and helps protect against those delayed neurological injuries. For significant exposures, guidelines support hyperbaric treatment as soon as possible.
Know the warning signs
- Headache, dizziness, nausea, or confusion
- Several people or pets in the same home feeling ill at once
- Symptoms that improve when you leave the house
If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, get to fresh air and call 911 immediately. For follow-on questions about hyperbaric care, our North County San Diego team is here to help.
Serving Oceanside, Carlsbad, Vista, and Encinitas — call or text (760) 555-0100.
