Radon is an odorless and colorless substance that's emitted from the habitual decomposition of uranium in rocks and soil, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It exists in most of the air we breathe. Radon can seep into houses through crevices in the walls or floors. Basements are the most vulnerable space to radon exposure because of their close proximity to the ground. Unfortunately, there are no clear signs to indicate radon exposure. Long-term exposure to high enough levels of radon can cause lung cancer.
Asymptomatic
A person who has been exposed to radon will not show any definitive signs or symptoms. According to Cigna, the effects of radon may go unnoticed until symptoms often associated with lung cancer begin to develop. The NIH says lung cancer is the only type of malignancy that is confirmed to be connected with breathing radon.
Lung Cancer
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) says each year an estimated 20,000 lung cancer deaths are linked to radon exposure. As in the case of radon exposure, lung cancer may be symptomless in its early stages. As the disease progresses, signs may include a persistent cough that becomes more severe over time, chronic chest pain, breathing difficulties and hoarseness.
Signs of lung cancer also may include unexplained weight loss, coughing up blood, recurrent lung infections and ongoing fatigue.
Metastatic Lung Cancer
The American Cancer Society (ACS) says when lung cancer has spread to other organs, symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), bone pain and loss of feeling or weakness in the legs and arms.
Other symptoms of advanced lung cancer may include lightheadedness, headaches and possible seizures. here may also be obvious lumps above the collarbone or in the lymph nodes that are located in the neck.
