How to Test for Ionization in Humans

All of us are exposed to radiation each day. Our natural world is made up of tiny particles called atoms. Atoms can either be radioactive or nonradioactive. Radioactive atoms give off radiation. When discussing health risks, radiation is broken down into two categories: ionized and non-ionized. Ionized radiation has a high energy level. It can alter the chemical make-up of atoms and change the DNA cells of people. Non-ionized radiation has a lower energy level. This lower energy level does not alter atoms or damage human DNA. The chemical process of an atom changing into ionized radiation particles is called ionization. Ionization can be naturally occurring in our environment or it can be manmade through science and industry. Even though low levels of ionized radiation can be harmless, exposure to too much can be harmful and cause health problems. Different types of tests are available that can detect and measure levels of ionization in humans.

Instructions

• 1

  Have a doctor analyze a sample of your body's chromosomes. Chromosomes are part of your DNA. They can be collected by taking blood or tissue samples from various areas of your body. Specialized laboratory testing can show changes in your DNA that occur from ionization. This type of testing is one of the most accurate available. Your doctor may consult with a specialist in genetics testing for further evaluation of your test results. For this test to be performed, the amount of your ionized radiation exposure needs to be about three times greater than normal.

• 2

  Have a doctor look for changes in your blood cell count. Once your blood is collected, it can be analyzed for ionized radiation. Your white blood cells will sometimes show changes after an exposure. The amount of your exposure needs to be around five times greater than normal before changes in your white blood cells can be seen. Your doctor may send you to a hematologist, who specializes in blood disorders, for a closer analysis of your test results.

• 3

  Have a doctor examine your body fluids to detect ionization. Body fluids such as blood, urine, feces and saliva can be tested for ionized radiation. Your specimens may need to be sent to specific laboratories for testing with specialized equipment. Once your testing is completed, your doctor may consult with a radiologist for further evaluation of your test results.

• 4

  Watch for changes in your body. If you have had an exposure to ionized radiation, certain symptoms may appear. Burns on your skin, hair loss, cataracts, sterility or cancer can be the result of ionization. These changes will only be present after large amounts of radioactive exposure have occurred. Because these symptoms can be caused by conditions other than ionization, report them to your doctor for further evaluation.