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Signs & Symptoms of Radon Exposure

Radon is an odorless, tasteless, naturally occurring gas that causes more than 21,000 cancer-related deaths in the U.S. every year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Radon can be found in any type of building, including your home. Simple tests can be performed to detect various levels of radon, and awareness of the signs and symptoms that result from exposure to radon is key in protecting yourself and loved ones from this dangerous gas.

  1. Causes

    • Radon comes from decaying uranium in the soil. Radioactive particles work their way up through the ground and into the air, where they enter the lungs and can begin to cause cells to turn cancerous. Radon is able to move into buildings through cracks in the foundation and walls, gaps in service pipes and even the water supply, according to the EPA.

    Exposure

    • There are no documented cases of illnesses or diseases related to short-term radon exposure. The likely scenario is that you won't realize you have been exposed to radon until many years later, when the symptoms develop. By this time, a disease could have already formed. The symptoms of radon exposure will be the same as those of lung cancer--a persistent cough, coughing up blood, breathing difficulty and chest pains.

    Lung Cancer

    • Radon is second only to cigarette smoking as a leading cause of lung cancer. Lung cancer is the only type cancer definitely linked to the inhalation of radon, according to the American Cancer Institute. If radon is present in the home of a smoker, that person's chances of getting lung cancer are increased dramatically, according to WebMD. The EPA recommends that all homeowners test for radon, especially those who smoke.

    Prevention

    • The easiest way to prevent radon exposure is to test your home. Radon test kits can be found at most hardware stores or home-improvement centers. New homes can be built to protect against radon, but all homes should still be tested for the gas. If radon is detected, a specialist will need to be hired to figure out the best way to eliminate the radon. You can check with your state's radon office for a list of these contractors and specialists.

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