Breathing in a lot of car fumes is really bad and could result in carbon monoxide poisoning as well as death if you breathe in a lot of them.
Car exhaust fumes that get into a vehicle can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning and even death, especially if the windows are closed.
Short term effects of breathing in car exhaust fumes, especially when breathed in small amounts are dizziness and difficulty breathing.
Long term effects of breathing in car exhaust fumes are heart disease, cancer, asthma as a result of carbon monoxide, particulate matter and carcinogens.
Being exposed to and breathing in small amounts of car exhaust fumes when not up close is likely not very harmful but breathing in too many car exhaust fumes can be dangerous, especially for elderly people, people with pre existing heart conditions or even children.
Always ensure your muffler and exhaust system are in good shape and not leaking and if you have a leaky exhaust system you should get it fixed.
Never sleep in a running car with the windows rolled up, especially when the exhaust could be blocked by snow as it can lead to a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide in your vehicle and lead to death.
The two warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning are headache and nausea and vomiting.
A headache is the first warning sign of carbon monoxide poisoning and so if you suddenly start feeling a headache you should get outside into the fresh air.
With carbon monoxide poisoning you may also start to feel fatigued and if you get out away from the carbon monoxide in time you might not have the nausea and vomiting.
Carbon monoxide displaces oxygen in your bloodstream which leads to headaches.
And carbon monoxide also can irritate your stomach and cause nausea and vomiting.