Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy for Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition caused by inhaling carbon monoxide gas, which prevents the blood from carrying oxygen to vital organs. Often called the “silent killer,” carbon monoxide is colourless, odourless, and tasteless, making early recognition challenging. Rapid intervention is essential, and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is widely recognised as a highly effective treatment for moderate to severe cases in the UK and worldwide.
HBOT increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, accelerates the removal of carbon monoxide from haemoglobin, and reduces the risk of long-term neurological or cardiovascular complications.
Understanding Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is produced by incomplete combustion of fuels such as gas, oil, wood, or coal. Common sources include:
- Faulty boilers or heating systems
- Gas appliances and cookers
- Vehicle exhaust in enclosed spaces
- Fires and smoke inhalation
When inhaled, carbon monoxide binds with haemoglobin in red blood cells far more readily than oxygen, forming carboxyhaemoglobin. This reduces oxygen delivery to tissues and can cause widespread organ damage if not treated promptly. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion, chest pain, or loss of consciousness. Severe exposure can lead to coma, cardiac complications, or death.
How HBOT Helps in Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is considered a cornerstone treatment for significant carbon monoxide poisoning because it directly addresses the physiological effects of CO in the bloodstream.
Key Benefits of HBOT
1. Accelerates Carbon Monoxide Removal
By breathing 100% oxygen at increased atmospheric pressure, carboxyhaemoglobin levels drop more quickly than with normal oxygen therapy, restoring oxygen-carrying capacity.
2. Enhances Tissue Oxygenation
Even if haemoglobin remains partially bound with CO, HBOT dissolves more oxygen directly into plasma, ensuring vital organs continue receiving oxygen.
3. Reduces Risk of Delayed Neurological Symptoms
HBOT has been shown to lower the incidence of cognitive and neurological problems that sometimes appear days or weeks after poisoning.
4. Supports Recovery of Sensitive Organs
High-oxygen delivery helps protect the brain, heart, and other organs from hypoxic damage caused by CO exposure.
Treatment Process in the UK
Patients suspected of moderate or severe carbon monoxide poisoning are usually referred to a hyperbaric chamber at a regional hospital or accredited HBOT centre. Treatment is guided by established UK protocols and often includes:
- Pressurisation to therapeutic depth in a monoplace or multiplace chamber
- Breathing 100% oxygen under pressure with carefully monitored air breaks
- Continuous medical supervision to monitor vital signs and neurological status
Treatment duration and frequency depend on the severity of CO exposure, the patient’s response, and the presence of complications.
Safety and Monitoring
HBOT for carbon monoxide poisoning is administered under strict medical supervision. UK centres follow safety regulations and ensure proper screening for contraindications, such as untreated pneumothorax or certain lung conditions. While generally very safe, treatment may involve mild ear discomfort or temporary changes in vision, which are closely monitored by the clinical team.
Recovery and Outcomes
When administered promptly, HBOT can significantly improve outcomes for CO poisoning, including:
- Rapid reduction of carboxyhaemoglobin levels
- Improved oxygen delivery to organs and tissues
- Decreased likelihood of long-term neurological deficits
- Support for cardiovascular and brain recovery
Delayed treatment, or exposure to high concentrations of CO, can still result in complications, highlighting the importance of early recognition and rapid referral to a hyperbaric facility.
FAQs About Carbon Monoxide Poisoning and HBOT
The sooner HBOT is administered, the more effective it is. Ideally, treatment begins within hours of significant exposure.
Mild cases may be managed with high-flow oxygen in a hospital setting, but HBOT is preferred for moderate to severe cases or when neurological symptoms are present.
HBOT is very safe when medically supervised, but contraindications like untreated pneumothorax must be considered.
Without rapid treatment, CO poisoning can lead to cognitive issues, memory problems, or other neurological deficits. HBOT helps reduce this risk.
Carbon monoxide poisoning is a medical emergency that requires fast, effective intervention. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy is a proven treatment that accelerates carbon monoxide elimination, restores oxygenation to tissues, and reduces the risk of long-term complications. In the UK, accredited hyperbaric centres provide structured, evidence-based care to support recovery and protect vital organs from hypoxic damage. Early recognition, rapid referral, and timely HBOT are essential steps in achieving the best possible outcomes.