Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Introduction: Why Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Requires Functional Support

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can be a silent killer—odourless, colourless, and virtually undetectable without the right equipment. Even after acute exposure is treated in an emergency setting, many patients suffer lingering symptoms such as fatigue, memory issues, and neurological disturbances.

At Patients Medical in New York City, we take an integrative, functional medicine approach to support the body’s recovery, detoxification, and cellular repair after CO exposure. We help patients heal not just from the event—but from its lasting effects.

What Is Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

Carbon monoxide is a gas produced by burning fuel—commonly found in cars, gas heaters, fireplaces, and appliances. When inhaled, CO binds to hemoglobin in the blood more readily than oxygen, forming carboxyhemoglobin—which prevents oxygen from reaching vital tissues and organs.

This oxygen deprivation can quickly lead to brain damage, heart injury, and death in severe cases. In milder or chronic exposures, symptoms can mimic other health conditions and often go undiagnosed.

Common Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Symptoms vary based on the duration and concentration of exposure. Mild cases may appear flu-like, while more severe exposure can affect the heart and brain. Symptoms include:

If these symptoms appear and multiple people in a home experience them simultaneously, seek immediate help and check CO levels.

Root Causes: Why Long-Term Effects Occur After CO Exposure

because the body is still dealing with:

  • Hypoxic (low oxygen) brain injury
  • Inflammatory and oxidative stress
  • Mitochondrial dysfunction
  • Damage to the heart and nervous system
  • Impaired detoxification pathways
  • Hormonal dysregulation due to stress response

Functional medicine focuses on repairing the cellular and neurological damage caused by CO and helping the body return to balance.

Diagnostic Testing We Use

At Patients Medical, we go beyond traditional ER testing to assess the full impact of CO poisoning on the body:

Carboxyhemoglobin blood levels

Inflammatory markers (CRP, cytokines)

Oxidative stress markers (lipid peroxides, 8-OHdG)

Mitochondrial function panels

Neurotransmitter and cognitive function assessments

Heart function testing (troponin, ECG, echocardiogram if needed)

Hormone testing (cortisol, thyroid, adrenal)

Heavy metal and toxin burden testing

Integrative Treatments for Carbon Monoxide Recovery

Nutritional Therapy

We create customized anti-inflammatory nutrition protocols rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and mitochondrial-supporting nutrients to help:

  • Rebuild cellular health
  • Restore brain function
  • Support oxygenation and circulation

IV Vitamin Therapy

Intravenous nutrients bypass digestion and deliver high-potency cellular support directly into your bloodstream. Popular IVs for post-CO poisoning include:

  • Glutathione (master antioxidant)
  • Alpha-Lipoic Acid
  • B-Complex Vitamins
  • Vitamin C
  • NAD+ Therapy for brain and mitochondrial recovery

Herbal & Nutraceuticals

Evidence-based supplements that support detox, neuroprotection, and cellular regeneration:

  • N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): Boosts glutathione production
  • CoQ10: Supports cellular energy
  • Omega-3s: Reduces inflammation and protects the brain
  • Curcumin: Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective
  • Magnesium and L-carnitine: Support nervous system repair
  • Phosphatidylserine: Cognitive and brain membrane support

All supplements are physician-guided and based on testing.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

While not available in all settings, HBOT can accelerate recovery by saturating tissues with oxygen and promoting brain healing. We refer eligible patients for this adjunctive therapy.

Brain Support & Neurotherapy

We offer cognitive rehabilitation support through:

  • Acupuncture
  • Meditation & neurofeedback
  • Brain-boosting nootropics
  • Functional neurology consultations

Detoxification & Organ Support

After CO exposure, the liver and kidneys are burdened with clearing free radicals and tissue damage. We may recommend:

  • Liver support herbs (milk thistle, dandelion root)
  • Activated charcoal (short-term)
  • Infrared sauna sessions
  • Gentle lymphatic therapies

Real Case Study: David’s Story of Recovery

David, 42, was exposed to CO from a malfunctioning heater during winter. Although emergency care stabilized him, he continued to experience:

  • Persistent headaches
  • Memory lapses
  • Chest tightness
  • Mood swings

At Patients Medical, we ran advanced tests and found elevated oxidative stress markers, low glutathione levels, and mitochondrial dysfunction. His integrative treatment plan included:

  • IV glutathione + alpha-lipoic acid
  • Mitochondrial support supplements
  • Omega-3s and anti-inflammatory diet
  • Guided neuro-rehabilitation

Within 6 weeks, David reported improved energy, clearer thinking, and better mood. Three months later, he returned to full-time work with no residual symptoms.

Testimonials

Frequently Asked Questions

 Yes, with proper care. Mild to moderate exposure often resolves fully. Chronic or severe cases may take time, but integrative therapy supports faster and fuller recovery.

 Yes. ER care is critical but doesn’t evaluate long-term oxidative or neurological damage. We help uncover what may still be affecting your health.

 Absolutely. Antioxidants, mitochondrial boosters, and neuroprotective agents are essential in reversing the damage CO does at a cellular level.

 IVs deliver nutrients like glutathione and NAD+ that directly assist in brain and organ repair after oxygen deprivation and oxidative stress.

 Yes. We tailor all treatments based on age, severity, and individual needs. Children, seniors, and sensitive patients are treated with gentle, supportive care.

 We do not offer HBOT in-house but refer to trusted NYC-based HBOT providers when appropriate.

 Recovery varies from a few weeks to several months, depending on exposure severity, age, and overall health. Our team monitors and adjusts your plan over time.

 We are out-of-network, but we provide superbills for potential reimbursement. Some lab tests may be partially covered.

 Yes. Many patients are exposed for weeks or months without knowing. We help uncover and treat these cases with precision.

 In most cases—no. With the right brain support, many patients see substantial improvement or full recovery.

Begin Your Journey with Patients Medical

Patients Medical specializes in gently helping the patient identify the root cause of their medical issues and then assist them to recover from their problems to help them move forward to good health.

Request your consultation today!

To schedule an in person on Tele-medicine appointment, please call our office at (212) 794-8800 or email us at info@PatientsMedical.com We look forward to hearing from you

Our medical center in New York City.

Patients Medical PC
1148 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1B New York, NY 10128

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