The Silent Killer

It's called the “silent killer” because it strikes without warning, without symptoms, and the results can be devastating, even fatal. What is this silent killer? It’s carbon monoxide.

Carbon monoxide

Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless and one of the leading causes of accidental poisoning deaths. Where is it? It’s in most homes – and is the result of incomplete burning of most household carbon–containing fuels, including coal, natural gas, oil, coal, wood, and charcoal. Poor air circulation or proper ventilation surrounding any source that burns these fuels (e.g., stoves, fireplaces, water heaters, and furnaces) produces this deadly gas.

How does carbon monoxide poisoning affect you? First off, it hinders the delivery of oxygen in the blood throughout the body. You may feel dizzy or sleepy at first. You may get a headache or have problems with breathing. At higher concentrations, your judgment may become cloudy and eventually convulsions, paralysis, coma and even death can result.

What can you do to protect your loved ones from the potentially devastating effects of carbon monoxide poisoning?

  • Install carbon monoxide detectors
  • Annually check all combustion (fuel–burning) appliances
  • Open the chimney flue when burning wood in a fireplace
  • Never use your stove to heat your house
  • Never burn charcoal inside your home
  • Use an exhaust fan near your stove for proper ventilation
  • Check all exhaust pipes to make sure they are connected and working properly
  • Never let your car idle in an attached garage Never use a space heater without proper ventilation

You can protect you and your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning by following these few simple suggestions. Be proactive – don’t let the “silent killer” creep up on you.

Dr. Victor  Asks some important questions of interest to Mississauga residents - Chiropractor Mississauga Dr. Victor Asks...

Why are some people allergic to pollen and others aren't?
It's not the pollen. Chiropractors know that if it were, everyone would be allergic to pollen, nuts and pet dander. But that's not the case. It's the person, not the pollen! If you live in Mississauga and your stress levels are high, then each year the grass, the trees or the weeds put your nervous system over the top. Many report that chiropractic care helps reduce the frequency and severity of their allergic response.
What controls your pulse, blood pressure and cholesterol?
Conventional health care focuses on the various aspects of your blood. But these are merely effects. Chiropractic focuses on the integrity of your nervous system that controls, regulates and monitors every aspect of your circulatory system, every aspect of your body and every person in Mississauga.