Carboxyhemoglobin is a compound formed when hemoglobin binds with carbon monoxide (CO) instead of oxygen, which can cause CO poisoning. This is a serious condition because carboxyhemoglobin prevents the blood from carrying oxygen to the body's tissues. Symptoms range from headache and dizziness to confusion and unconsciousness.
 

How it forms

• Hemoglobin's role: Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen (O2cap O sub 2𝑂2) throughout the body. 
• Carbon monoxide's action: CO is a gas that is odorless, colorless, and tasteless. It binds to hemoglobin about 200 times more easily than oxygen does. 
• Formation: When CO is inhaled, it binds to hemoglobin to form carboxyhemoglobin, effectively replacing the oxygen that would normally bind there. 

Risks and symptoms

• Oxygen deprivation: By binding to hemoglobin, carboxyhemoglobin reduces the blood's ability to transport oxygen, leading to tissue hypoxia (a lack of oxygen). 
• Symptoms: Symptoms of CO poisoning can include:
  • Headache
  • Dizziness 
  • Weakness
  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Confusion
  • Chest pain 
  • Shortness of breath 
  • Loss of consciousness 

Treatment

• Immediate action: Removing the source of carbon monoxide and getting the person to fresh air is the first step. 
• Medical intervention: For moderate to severe cases, medical treatment is necessary. 
• Treatment options: These may include:
  • Administering a higher concentration of oxygen 
  • Using a hyperbaric oxygen chamber, which can significantly reduce the time it takes for carboxyhemoglobin to clear from the blood 
  • Using a ventilator to support breathing