Is there a type of poisoning that can happen from breathing exhaust fumes while driving an old car? Symptoms?

Question

WIthout knowing the exhaust was coming into the car, I drove in an old car; now I feel sick; what are symptoms & how long will it last?

Answer 1

dizzy vomitting headache

Answer 2

Carbon monoxide poisoning. It makes you feel sick to your stomach, headache, and eventually sleepy and/or dizzy. The sleepiness is caused by the lack of oxygen. The carbon monoxide kills people by keeping them from getting enough oxygen. It can have effects that last for hours.

Answer 3

I am no expert, but depending on howold the car really is (and in what condition), any of the following may be possible

1.) Posioning due to incomplete combustion (Carbon Monoxide). This is very dangerous since CO literally replaces oxygen in your bloodstream, and is completely odorless and colorless. If you suspect you may have CO poisoning, I know they have sensors for this sort of thing that you might be able to buy at a local car parts store

I have heard that symptoms include: nausea, sleepiness, and in severe cases lack of conciousness or death (I am guessing this is likely what's going on in your case)

2.) Sulfur compound leak poisoning: Possibly in older cars where old fuel and/or parts that may have sulfur traces may make their way into your breathing air. Please see above about sensors

Answer 4

Mostly dizziness and sometime upset stomach.

Make sure you get plenty of fresh air.

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How old was the car.  Most cars since 1980's have cat converters.  So the risk of serious poisoning is very limited.

You should be better by next day.

good Luck....