Previous Year Question

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colourless and odourless toxic gas. It is mainly produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels.

After entering the body through inhalation, CO passes from the lungs into the bloodstream and binds with Haemoglobin to form Carboxyhaemoglobin (COHb).

The formation of Carboxyhaemoglobin reduces the ability of Haemoglobin to transport Oxygen to body tissues. As a result, organs may not receive sufficient Oxygen, leading to tissue hypoxia.

Organs with high Oxygen requirements, particularly the brain and heart, are especially affected. High exposure may cause headache, dizziness, weakness, confusion, unconsciousness and ultimately death.