Radon gas is a natural byproduct of the breakdown of uranium, a metal found in the soils, rocks and water of many geological areas around the U.S. and the globe. The gas is radioactive and can get into any type of structure, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Radon gas may also cause a variety of symptoms in humans, which may act as warning signs to dangerous levels of radon in your home, school or office.
Lung Damage
Radon gas is inhaled through the mouth or nose into the lungs, causing damage through the release of energy particles contaminated with radioactive gas. The small blasts of energy release by radon gas particles can damage or destroy lung tissues over a long period of time. In some individuals, long-term exposure to radon has been linked to lung cancer for all age groups, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Coughing
A person exposed to a variety of radon gas poisoning may develop a cough that won't go away, or one that may produce spots of blood in the sputum. Because radon gas is a colorless, odorless gas, you won't be able to smell it upon exposure. Symptoms include a cough that won't go away or coughing up small or large amounts of blood. These are also common symptoms of lung cancer, which radon gas is believed to cause.
Frequent Respiratory Infections
Chronic or long-term exposure to radon gas may cause frequent bouts of lung illnesses or conditions for those exposed to poisoned air. Bronchitis and pneumonia as well as bouts of wheezing, sore throat and hoarseness are common types of respiratory infections that may afflict those exposed to radon gas over a period of time, depending on the dose or measurements of radon gas in the home, school or office environment.
Shortness of Breath
You may notice increased shortness of breath over a long period of time that just doesn't seem to get any better, no matter what you do. Shortness of breath may make it difficult to engage in activities that require stamina, such as mowing a lawn, and may prevent you from getting a good lungful of air. Those exposed to radon poisoning for long periods may find themselves gasping for breath after fairly innocuous activities, such as vacuuming or other cleaning activities in the home. As with coughing, frequent lung-related infections and difficulty breathing, such signs may indicate lung damage caused by long-term exposure to radon gas poisoning.
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