What are symptoms of radiation sickness?

Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) is the term for the harmful effects of radiation on the human body. ARS is caused by exposure to ionizing radiation, which is a type of high-energy radiation that can penetrate the body. Symptoms of ARS depend on the amount of radiation exposure and the length of time of exposure.

Acute radiation syndrome can be classified into four stages:

* Prodromal stage: This stage occurs within the first few hours to 2 days after exposure. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headache, and fever.

* Latent stage: This stage can last for several days or weeks. Symptoms may disappear during this time, but the damage to the body's cells is still occurring.

* Manifest illness stage: This stage occurs when the symptoms of radiation sickness become more severe. Symptoms may include bleeding, diarrhea, hair loss, and skin damage.

* Recovery stage: This stage begins when the symptoms of radiation sickness start to improve. The recovery process can be slow and may take several months or even years.

The following are the most common symptoms of radiation sickness:

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Fatigue

* Headache

* Fever

* Diarrhea

* Bleeding

* Hair loss

* Skin damage

* Loss of appetite

* Weight loss

* Confusion

* Seizures

* Coma

* Death

Radiation sickness can also lead to a number of other health problems, including:

* Increased risk of cancer

* Heart disease

* Stroke

* Diabetes

* Kidney disease

* Liver damage

* Infertility

* Birth defects

If you think you may have been exposed to radiation, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.