Radon is a natural radioactive gas that rises from the soil and can enter the home. Radon gas is produced when uranium, thorium, and radium break down in the soil, or even in water, forming a gas into the air. Radon gas is invisible, odorless and tasteless which can lead to illness. Exposure to radon will cause certain symptoms which can help warn the homeowner of the gas’s presence. Lifeline Home Inspections will share the signs of radon gas and when to seek a radon test to determine if it is present.
Signs of Radon Exposure & Poisoning
Long term exposure to radon gas can cause cancer. However, early exposure often reveals itself through minor symptoms. When a person is exposed to radon gas they can develop a persisting cough and some people may even begin to cough up blood. Along with a cough, many people develop a wheezing in their chest and hoarseness accompanied with shortness of breath. If exposure persists, chest pain and respiratory infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia can develop. Some people will also lose their appetite, experience weight loss and feel fatigue. If radon gas is never corrected, constant exposure can lead to cancer. About 21000 cases of lung cancer per year is due to radon gas exposure. Cancer can develop after 5 to 25 years of exposure to radon gas. It is important to detect earlier signs of radon gas poisoning to prevent such an outcome.
How does Radon Gas Enter a Home?
Radon gas is not harmful when it rises from the ground and is released outside the home. However, if radon gas enters the home and cannot escape, it will build up to lethal levels. Radon gas in the home is rare and in most cases, never enters inside. Radon gas can enter the home if it isn’t insulated or sealed properly. Radon gas most often enters through a crack in the foundation or enters through crawl spaces or in the basement. You may not have any problems with radon gas for years, but if the slab or foundation develops a crack, gas can rise up through it and enter the home.
Is Radon Testing Necessary?
If you develop symptoms of radon gas poisoning it is essential to seek out radon testing. A radon test can help determine if your illness is due to radon gas exposure. If the test comes back positive for radon gas, your next step will be to determine how the gas is entering inside the home. A home inspector can perform radon testing. In places with high levels of the gas, the inspector can inspect the surroundings for the source of gas. A home inspector will look for cracks in the foundation or in the walls. It is important to seal off the cracks to keep the gas out of your home.
Buyer, Seller Pre-Inspection & Maintenance Home Inspections in Griffin, Peachtree City, Fayetteville, Newnan, Zebulon, Thomaston, Douglasville & Metro Atlanta, GA
If you feel like you have been exposed to radon gas and want your home tested and inspected, contact Lifeline Home Inspections. We provide radon testing, inspections and more! To schedule a radon test contact Lifeline Inspection Services today.
