1. Watch for the Conditions That Produce Carbon Dioxide Poisoning
Carbon dioxide poisoning, more formally know as hypercapnia, results from an excess of carbon dioxide in the blood. We expel carbon dioxide when we breathe. Poisoning often occurs when something interferes with that process. Rebreathing exhaled air, such as when a plastic bag is placed over your head, is one cause. Breathing in areas with a high concentration of carbon dioxide such as near a volcano is another. People with lung conditions may not be expelling carbon dioxide from their bodies quickly enough, which can result in poisoning. Scuba divers are particularly vulnerable because their breathing air is completely contained in their tanks. If the carbon dioxide isn't properly filtered out or their equipment is malfunctioning, they may begin suffering from CO2 poisoning.
2. Look for Symptoms of Carbon Dioxide Poisoning
Signs of excessive carbon dioxide include a rapid pulse, flushed appearance, elevated blood pressure, muscle spasms and confusion or inability to think. In extreme cases, it may cause convulsions and panic attacks as well as hyperventilation. Watch carefully for symptoms in conditions that may be conducive to it, such as sea diving or travel through areas of high carbon dioxide concentration.
3. Make Sure the Victim's Air Passages Are Clear
If you think someone near you is suffering from poisoning, summon an ambulance if you can. Clear the victim's air passages and make sure she is breathing properly. If you have access to a continuous positive air pressure machine, put it on the patient's nose and mouth and induce breathing. Remove the patient from any atmosphere that contains excessive carbon dioxide.
4. Make Sure the Victim Has Access to Oxygen
Carbon dioxide comprises only a tiny percentage of the earth's atmosphere. We breathe a small amount in every time we inhale, and poisoning only occurs when too much of it accumulates in our blood. When the victim is stabilized, get him into an environment rich in oxygen--a hospital is ideal, but canisters of breathable air, portable oxygen tents or even just taking him to a lower elevation where oxygen levels are higher can work too.
