Carbon Dioxide Poisoning

Carbon dioxide is a natural compound present in the atmosphere, in Earth’s water and land etc. It absorbs heat and contributes to global warming, which makes it both useful and very dangerous to humans’ future.

Chemical Properties

Carbon dioxide is a colorless, odorless gas that occurs naturally in volcanic eruptions, tree felling, spring water etc., and anthropogenically, especially in the burning of fuels, but also through the various industrial uses of carbon dioxide. Its chemical formula is CO₂. 

Uses

There are dozens of uses for carbon dioxide:

• Refrigeration
• Food processing
• Metal works
• Cement production
• Carbonation of soft drinks
• Fertilizers
• Lime manufacturing
• Extinguishers
• Gas extraction
• Electric power plant
• Brewing
• Waste incinerators

Toxicity

Carbon dioxide can be very toxic to humans when inhaled or in direct contact, especially in confined spaces. Exposure can lead to serious health problems:

• Hyperventilation
• Loss of vision
• Muscle contractions
• Shortness of breath
• Headaches
• Numbness
• Dizziness
• Unconsciousness
• Nervous system damage
• Memory loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Confusion
• Skin burns
• Elevated blood pressure
• Birth defects