carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when the products of incomplete combustion of carbon-containing substances are inhaled through the respiratory tract, causing toxicity. Carbon monoxide readily binds with hemoglobin to form carboxyhemoglobin, which impairs hemoglobin's ability and function to carry oxygen, resulting in tissue asphyxia. It exerts toxic effects on tissue cells throughout the body, with the most severe impact on the cerebral cortex. By the time individuals realize they have suffered carbon monoxide poisoning, it is often already too late. This is because the cerebral cortex, which controls voluntary movement, is the first to be paralyzed and damaged, rendering the person unable to perform purposeful voluntary movements. Therefore, victims of carbon monoxide poisoning are often unable to effectively rescue themselves.