Radon is a naturally occurring gas produced by the breakdown of uranium in rock, soil, and water. It can enter your home through cracks and holes in the foundation and accumulate to dangerous levels. Radon poisoning can occur over a long period, which is why it can be difficult to detect.
If you’re a homeowner, you must be aware of the dangers of radon poisoning and the signs to look out for. Knowing how to take action against radon in your home is also essential. Keep reading to learn more.
Signs Of Radon Exposure & Poisoning
Radon is a gas you can’t see, smell, or taste. It’s all around us, and it’s the leading cause of lung cancer in nonsmokers. The EPA estimates that radon poisoning kills more than 20,000 people every year. And yet, many of us don’t even know it exists. The radon exposure symptoms are often mistaken for other, more common illnesses. Symptoms of radon poisoning include:
Shortness of breath
Often one of the first radon symptoms that people notice. It could be a sign of radon poisoning if you find yourself out of breath more quickly than usual or feel like you can’t catch your breath.
Hoarseness
Radon gas can degrade the throat and vocal cords, leading to hoarseness. Losing your voice frequently or sounding hoarse could be a symptom of prolonged exposure to radon.
Trouble swallowing
Difficulty swallowing can also indicate that radon gas is affecting your throat. If you feel like you have trouble swallowing or a lump in your throat that won’t go away, it could be a sign of exposure to high radon levels.
Cough
A cough that won’t go away is another symptom of radon poisoning. Radon gas can irritate the lungs and cause inflammation over time. If you experience a chronic cough or seem to be getting worse, it could be a sign that you must have your home tested for radon gas.
Pain Or Tightness In Your Chest
Radon gas can also cause pain or tightness in the chest. This symptom is often mistaken for heartburn or indigestion. Find yourself experiencing chest pain or tightness that doesn’t seem to have any other explanation. It could suggest that you must get your home tested for radon gas levels.
If you experience these radon symptoms and live in an area with high radon levels, it’s vital to see a doctor and get your home tested for radon exposure.
How To Take Action Against Radon In My Home
If you’re concerned about radon gas in your home, there are some things you can do to take action against it.
- Have your home tested for radon gas levels by a certified professional.
- Seal any cracks or fissures in your home’s foundation or basement, if any.
- Improve the air circulation indoors when possible.
- Install a radon mitigation system that suits your home’s needs.
Install Your Radon Mitigation System With Radon Control Services
Radon gas is a hazard that every homeowner should be aware of. It’s vital to have your home tested for radon gas and take immediate action if the test results indicate levels above 4 pCi/L (picocuries per liter). If you’re concerned about radon gas in your home, Radon Control Services can give you the peace of mind of breathing healthy and safe indoor air.
At Radon Control Services, we serve and protect St. Louis, MO, residents from the danger of radon gas. We’ll work with you to find the best solution for your home and install a radon mitigation system that meets your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you take action against radon gas in your home.
