What is a common effect of carbon monoxide exposure?

Carbon monoxide exposure primarily affects the cardiovascular and central nervous systems due to its ability to bind with hemoglobin in red blood cells, forming carboxyhemoglobin. This binding decreases the blood's capacity to transport oxygen, leading to tissue hypoxia and potential cardiac ischemia. Cardiac ischemia occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood, often resulting in chest pain or even heart damage, which is particularly concerning for individuals with existing heart conditions.

In contrast, skin lesions, liver damage, and skin burns are not typical direct effects of carbon monoxide exposure. Skin lesions and burns are usually associated with physical or chemical injuries rather than respiratory toxins like carbon monoxide. Liver damage is more commonly linked to substances such as alcohol or certain medications rather than carbon monoxide. Therefore, understanding the specific physiological impacts of carbon monoxide exposure highlights why cardiac ischemia is the most relevant and common effect among the options presented.