Who doesn’t love a hot shower in winters. But did you know this routine that looks harmless can tune into something fatal. A similar incident was shared by Maharashtra-based Neurologist Sikandar Adwani on his X account. The neurologist shared an incident how two patients arrived in the OPD and both were found unconscious in their bathrooms. Both took hot showers in closed bathrooms, with no proper ventilation. The chilling part is that both had gas geysers installed in their bathrooms.
What caused the unconsciousness
Dr. Sikander highlighted that they became unconscious not because of the gas smell. In fact it was something more threatening and serious. The bathrooms were filled with carbon monoxide gas (CO).
No warning signs
The gas didn’t come up with a warning sign like a significant odor or color. Instead it slows down the oxygen supply to the brain, leaving the brain oxygen-deprived. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in the blood far more strongly than oxygen does. This prevents oxygen from reaching vital organs, especially the brain and heart.
The red flags inside the bathroom
The doctor shared that the patients did feel the symptoms that are typical signs of exposure to carbon monoxide gas:
- Headache out of nowhere
- Dizziness
- Nausea and weakness
- Unusual sleepiness
- Confusion or brain fog
What to do in such a situation
Dr. Sikander also highlighted how one can safely manage the situation:
- First switch of the geyser
- Step out immediately
- Open doors and windows for ventilation
If you use a gas geyser, especially during winters or early mornings, awareness is your best protection. To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide exposure in such a situation, ensure proper ventilation in the bathroom where gas geysers are installed. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only.