Is it a cold or CO poisoning?

Gas Safe Register is urging people to check whether their cold symptoms are a sign of something more sinister such as CO exposure this winter. New research for the Register has revealed that just one-quarter (27%) of people recognise symptoms such as headaches, shortness of breath and fatigue as potential signs of CO exposure.

More than half (54%) incorrectly identified nasal congestion and fever as potential signs of CO poisoning – these symptoms are unlikely to occur when exposed to the potentially deadly gas.

The research also found that Brits consume a 5.4 billion medicinal tablets every winter to help treat cold and flu symptoms². More than half (54%) admitted their medication sometimes failed to provide relief, which could suggest exposure to CO, which over-the-counter pills cannot treat.

More than three-quarters (76%) of respondents said they try to self-manage cold and flu symptoms before seeking medical advice, while nearly two-thirds (63%) would stay warm indoors with the central heating on and windows closed – contrary to potentially lifesaving health and safety advice to seek fresh air if experiencing a CO leak.

Recent data has highlighted that household exposures could be seven times higher than the figures currently reported. Symptoms of CO poisoning can often be mild and easily mistaken for common illnesses like a cold or flu, yet one-third (33%) of respondents assumed they would feel severely unwell if they were exposed to a carbon monoxide leak.

Gas Safe Register has partnered with Dr Punam Krishan, the BBC health expert, to raise awareness of the key differences between the symptoms of CO poisoning and colds at the height of the cold and flu season.

Dr Krishan said: “As a doctor, I’ve seen patients suffering from CO poisoning who were completely unaware of the symptoms until they came into contact with health services, which could have been avoided by following preventative guidance.

“The overlap between symptoms of a CO leak and a common cold – such as headaches, fatigue and dizziness – makes it easy to mistake one for the other, especially during this peak time for seasonal illnesses. However, it’s important to remember that while some symptoms may overlap, nasal congestion and fever are not typically associated with CO poisoning, which can help distinguish the two.”

Jonathan Palmer, Standards and Training Manager at Gas Safe Register, said: “We are issuing a call for anyone who starts feeling under the weather to ‘Check Your Cold’ – think twice about symptoms and ensure they’re not a sign of something more sinister.

“But alongside familiarising yourself with the symptoms of CO poisoning, the first line of defence to prevent a CO leak should always be to have your gas appliances in the home safety checked on an annual basis. A Gas Safe registered engineer can detect early signs of wear and tear that could become a more serious problem later down the line if left unaddressed.”