Ask Dr. Hirsch: Weekly Q&A with Dr. Shari Hirsch, Pediatrician and Lactation Specialist at Lev Pediatric Care

Ask Dr. Hirsch

Weekly Q and A with Dr. Shari Hirsch, Pediatrician and Lactation Specialist at Lev Pediatric Care

This Week’s Question:
“What should families know about carbon monoxide safety during the winter?”

Dr. Hirsch’s Answer:
Winter means closed windows and running heat, but it’s also the season when carbon monoxide exposure becomes more common. Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an invisible, odorless gas that can be dangerous, even deadly, and young children are especially vulnerable.

The good news is that carbon monoxide poisoning is largely preventable with a few simple steps.

What is carbon monoxide and why is it dangerous?
Carbon monoxide is produced when fuel does not burn completely. Common sources include furnaces, gas stoves, fireplaces, space heaters, and cars running in garages.

What makes CO so dangerous is that you can’t see or smell it. It replaces oxygen in the blood, which means vital organs like the brain and heart don’t get the oxygen they need. Infants, children, pregnant people, and those with heart or lung conditions can become sick more quickly.

Symptoms to watch for
Carbon monoxide poisoning can look like a viral illness, which is why it’s sometimes missed. Early symptoms may include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, or vomiting. More serious signs include confusion, trouble walking, chest pain, shortness of breath, or loss of consciousness.

In infants and young children, symptoms can be subtle, such as fussiness, poor feeding, or unusual sleepiness. If multiple family members develop similar symptoms at the same time, especially indoors, think carbon monoxide.

Prevention that saves lives
Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. Check batteries regularly. Have heating systems serviced yearly, keep vents clear of snow or debris, and never run cars, grills, or generators indoors or in garages. Carbon monoxide detectors are just as important as smoke alarms.

When to seek help
If your detector goes off, get everyone outside to fresh air immediately and call emergency services or the fire department. Do not re-enter the home until it’s declared safe. If you suspect CO exposure based on symptoms, leave right away and seek emergency care.

Bottom line
Carbon monoxide is scary, but preparation makes a huge difference. Working detectors, routine maintenance, and quick action can keep your family safe all winter. If you’re ever unsure, trust your instincts and seek help. Being cautious is the right choice.

Dr. Shari Hirsch, MD, specializes in infant feeding, including expert newborn support, lactation guidance, and frenotomy (tongue-tie release). She also offers emotional wellness care, with guidance and medication management for attention, mood, and anxiety support.

Lev Pediatric Care is located at Evergreen Uptown Mall in Pomona. Their hours are Sunday through Thursday, 10:00 am to 7:45 pm, and Friday, 10:00 am to 1:00 pm. Same-day appointments are available. To schedule, call 845-579-5700. They also provide free car service to and from doctor visits.

Have a question for next week’s column? Send it to Lev Pediatric Care, and Dr. Hirsch may feature it in an upcoming Q&A