Which of the following is a common symptom of low-level carbon monoxide exposure?

A common symptom of low-level carbon monoxide exposure is nausea and flu-like symptoms. This occurs because carbon monoxide binds with hemoglobin in the blood more effectively than oxygen, which leads to reduced oxygen availability in the body. As a result, individuals may experience symptoms resembling those of the flu, such as headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and confusion. These symptoms are nonspecific and can often be mistaken for other illnesses, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

In contrast, symptoms such as severe confusion and agitation can occur with higher levels of carbon monoxide exposure and are not typical at low levels. Additionally, chest pain and respiratory failure are more severe manifestations associated with acute high levels of exposure and are not characteristic of low-level exposure. Severe fatigue and dizziness can also be symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning but are often experienced in conjunction with the nausea and flu-like symptoms. Thus, the most representative symptom of low-level exposure is the nausea alongside the general flu-like symptoms.