Y17.1: Poisoning by and exposure to carbon monoxide from utility gas, undetermined intent

Poisoning by and exposure to carbon monoxide from utility gas, undetermined intent, is a medical condition where an individual unknowingly inhales excessive amounts of carbon monoxide (CO), a harmful gas produced from incomplete combustion of fossil fuel. Typically, this occurs due to faulty, improperly used or incorrectly vented fuel-burning appliances like heaters or stoves. Symptoms often include dizziness, headache, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion. The inhaled CO replaces oxygen in the bloodstream, leading to vital organs, mostly the brain and the heart, not getting enough oxygen. This poses life-threatening complications if not addressed promptly. The severity of poisoning can vary, ranging from mild with reversible effects to severe involving neurological damage or can be fatal, contingent on the amount of CO inhaled. The intent behind exposure in such situations is usually undetermined.