What condition can result from prolonged exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide?

Prolonged exposure to high levels of carbon monoxide can lead to a variety of serious health conditions, all of which are interconnected due to the way carbon monoxide affects the body's oxygen delivery system. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells far more effectively than oxygen does, forming carboxyhemoglobin which decreases the amount of oxygen carried in the bloodstream.

Asphyxiation can occur because the cells and tissues in the body are deprived of necessary oxygen, leading ultimately to cellular damage and death. Additionally, respiratory failure may result as the body struggles to bring in adequate oxygen due to the impaired hemoglobin function. This can lead to insufficient oxygenation of vital organs, further contributing to systemic issues.

Cardiovascular collapse is another potential outcome, as the heart and circulatory system are heavily reliant on oxygen for function. The lack of oxygen can lead to arrhythmias, reduced cardiac output, and eventual failure of the cardiovascular system as it cannot meet the body's demands for oxygen-rich blood.

Given that all these conditions can stem from carbon monoxide exposure, the choice that encompasses all these severe outcomes is the most accurate representation of the potential risks associated with high levels of carbon monoxide exposure.