What potential outcome can result from prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide?

Prolonged exposure to carbon monoxide can lead to severe health effects, including death, as carbon monoxide is a toxic gas that interferes with the body’s ability to transport oxygen. When inhaled, it binds with hemoglobin in red blood cells more effectively than oxygen does, significantly reducing the oxygen carrying capacity of the blood. This can lead to hypoxia, a condition where body tissues are deprived of sufficient oxygen.

In the case of extended exposure, the brain and other vital organs suffer from a lack of oxygen, which can lead to irreversible damage or fatality. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can escalate rapidly from headache and dizziness to confusion and unconsciousness, ultimately resulting in death if exposure continues without intervention. Understanding these potential outcomes emphasizes the importance of ventilating spaces where gas-powered devices are used and recognizing the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning promptly.