Elderly Couple Escapes Death From Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 400 Americans die every year from accidental deaths by carbon monoxide poisoning, being most common in seniors 65 and older. 20,000 emergency room visits and 4,000 hospitalizations happen every year as well.

In Dallas, two senior citizens were victims of carbon monoxide poisoning. Richard and Margaret Harrington escaped death last Friday when their furnace started leaking odorless carbon monoxide gas while they slept.

Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer. It binds the red blood cells making it difficult for oxygen to circulate in the body. People who are sleeping may die from carbon monoxide poisoning before ever experiencing symptoms, which include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion.

When the Harrington’s daughter tried calling repeatedly with no answer, she drove to their home to discover her mother moaning and crying in bed, having difficulty talking. Her father was slumped over in a chair in another bedroom.

During the trip to the hospital, Richard Harrington had two heart attacks. His liver and kidneys failed and he was in a coma for four days. When a person is short of oxygen, it is common for organs to shut down.

Richard Harrington finally opened his eyes Friday afternoon, the day after Thanksgiving. His family was around him at the time. Margaret Harrington escaped serious bodily shut downs and was present in the room, fearful that they would have to turn his machines off. Though Harrington’s eyes have opened, it is still no guarantee that he will recover.

Carbon Monoxide poisoning is extremely common and very preventable injury. If you or someone you know has been victim of carbon monoxide poisoning, contact the attorneys at V&B for a free evaluation and free information on how we may help.