What is carbon monoxide known to interfere with?

Carbon monoxide is known to significantly interfere with oxygen transfer in the blood. It does this by binding to hemoglobin in red blood cells with a much greater affinity than oxygen. When carbon monoxide is present, it competes with oxygen for binding sites on hemoglobin, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen to tissues and organs. This can lead to symptoms of oxygen deprivation, affecting various bodily functions and possibly resulting in serious health complications. Understanding this mechanism is vital, especially in contexts relating to athletic training and performance, where oxygen delivery is critical.