Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is invisible, odorless, and tasteless. It originates from the natural decay of uranium in soil, rock, and water, seeping up through the ground and into homes and other buildings. Many people wonder if radon exposure can cause immediate symptoms like sleepiness; however, its health implications are long-term and often misunderstood. This article addresses the common query about radon causing fatigue and explains its actual, significant health risks.
Does Radon Cause Fatigue?
Radon exposure does not directly cause symptoms such as sleepiness or fatigue. Its health effects are chronic, developing over many years of continuous exposure, not acutely. Unlike gases that might displace oxygen or directly affect the central nervous system, radon’s interaction with the body is different.
People might mistakenly attribute feelings of fatigue or general malaise to radon exposure, possibly due to other health conditions or a misattribution of symptoms. The danger lies in its cumulative effect on the body over extended periods.
The Real Health Risks of Radon
The primary health risk linked to long-term radon exposure is lung cancer. When radon gas decays, it produces tiny radioactive particles, known as radon progeny. These particles can attach to dust and other airborne substances, and when inhaled, they become lodged in the lining of the lungs.
Once in the lungs, these radioactive particles emit radiation that can damage the DNA of lung cells, leading to lung cancer. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, surpassed only by smoking. Among non-smokers, radon is the leading cause of lung cancer. Symptoms of radon-induced lung cancer typically do not appear until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage, making early detection important.
How to Detect and Address Radon
Testing is the only reliable method to determine radon’s presence in a home or building. There are two main types of tests: short-term and long-term. Short-term tests provide quick results, usually within a few days to 90 days.
Long-term tests remain in the home for a longer period, usually 90 days to a year, offering a more comprehensive average of radon levels over time. Homeowners can purchase do-it-yourself test kits or hire qualified professionals for testing. If high radon levels are detected, mitigation systems are effective in reducing concentrations.
The most common method for addressing elevated radon levels is active soil depressurization, also known as sub-slab depressurization. This system involves installing a vent pipe and a fan that draws radon from beneath the foundation and exhausts it safely outside the home. Sealing cracks and openings in the foundation is also important to enhance the system’s efficiency and limit radon entry.