Why is Radon Gas so Dangerous?
What is radon gas?
Radon gas is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that cannot be seen, has no smell, and cannot be tasted. It comes from the natural decay of uranium, which is a metal element that is found underground in most soils and travels upward through the ground and diffuses into the air.
Why is this important?
Radon that has become trapped in houses and other buildings builds up, and in higher concentrations can cause significant health risks if it is inhaled. Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smoking people and is responsible for over 21,000 deaths in the United States annually.
How does this gas get into homes and other buildings?
Radon can enter buildings and homes through gaps or cracks in the foundation, construction joints, gaps around pipes, and other openings in the floor or walls. Essentially, any point where the home’s structure comes in contact with the ground can be a potential entry point for radon gas. Radon can also be found in well water.
What is radon poisoning, and what are some of the signs to watch out for?
Radon gas poisoning is caused by exposure to elevated levels of radon over a prolonged period of time. While the effects of radon gas exposure may not show up for many years, the results are chronic and present themselves as lung cancer. The amount of time it takes for radon to affect you depends on several factors, including the level of radon present, the duration of exposure, and individual factors like age, health status, and lifestyle habits.
Radon gas poisoning and early lung cancer have symptoms such as:
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty swallowing
- Chest pain
- Weight loss
- Coughing up blood
- Wheezing
- Frequent infections, like pneumonia
What should I do if I suspect I may have radon gas in my home?
Radon testing is the first step in protecting you and your family against radon gas poisoning. In-home testing is easy and cost-effective. If it is found that you do have unacceptable levels of radon gas in your home, remediation should occur to protect you and your family from further exposure. Ensure that all testing and mitigation is done by a qualified professional.
To contact the Iowa Department of Public Health Radon Program, call 515-281-4928 or visit their website at https://hhs.iowa.gov/radiological-health/radon for information on how to obtain an Iowa Certified Radon Laboratories Test Kit.
Radon test kits can also be ordered from the American Lung Association. To purchase a radon test kit, visit their website here. After selecting the state you live in, you will then be able to purchase either short-term or long-term radon test kits.
In Wright County, Iowa, radon test kits can be purchased for $13.00 each. Call 515-532-3461 to order or for more information.
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and suspect radon gas poisoning in your home, our Cardiopulmonary department here at Iowa Specialty Hospitals & Clinics is available for any of your outpatient testing needs. Call us at 515-532-9351 for assistance.
Remember — the air you breathe in could mean the difference between life or death —protect your lungs at all times!
