What are the symptoms of gas poisoning?
Symptoms of gas poisoning include respiratory irritation, central nervous system symptoms, skin and mucous membrane injuries, cardiovascular symptoms, and gastrointestinal symptoms. The specific manifestations depend on the type, concentration, and duration of exposure to the toxic gas. If symptoms suggestive of gas poisoning occur, the individual should immediately leave the contaminated environment and seek emergency medical care.

1. Respiratory irritation symptoms: Commonly manifest as coughing, sore throat, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Severe cases may develop difficulty breathing and pink frothy sputum. These are typically seen in poisoning by irritant gases such as chlorine or sulfur dioxide, caused by direct damage to the respiratory mucosa.
2. Central nervous system symptoms: Early signs include dizziness, headache, and fatigue. As poisoning progresses, symptoms may escalate to restlessness, confusion, and in severe cases, coma or seizures. These are commonly associated with carbon monoxide or hydrogen sulfide poisoning, resulting from impaired metabolism of nerve cells.
3. Skin and mucous membrane injury symptoms: Affected skin areas may become red, itchy, or develop blisters. Mucous membranes (such as the conjunctiva or oral mucosa) may show congestion and swelling. Exposure to corrosive gases (e.g., ammonia) can lead to ulceration and necrosis of the skin and mucous membranes, impairing local function.
4. Cardiovascular symptoms: May present as palpitations, chest tightness, and hypotension. Severe cases can involve arrhythmias or shock, often due to direct myocardial damage, impaired circulation, or hypoxia-induced cardiac dysfunction.
5. Gastrointestinal symptoms: Common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, sometimes accompanied by loss of appetite. These result from direct irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa by the toxic gas or systemic toxin effects on digestive organs, exacerbating general discomfort.
In daily care, ensure the environment is well-ventilated. If skin or mucous membranes are injured, gently clean the affected areas. Provide a light, easily digestible diet, closely monitor consciousness and respiratory status, administer medications as prescribed, schedule regular follow-up evaluations of organ function, and promptly report any abnormalities to the physician.