Frequently Asked Questions About Radon Exposure In The Home

Many individuals are unaware about radon and how this dangerous gas can be lurking in their homes and drinking water. Individuals should educate themselves about the hazards of radon and learn steps they can take to protect themselves and their families. Read the questions and answers below to learn important information about radon, its negative health effects and how to minimize radon exposure in the home.

What exactly is radon and how is it produced?

When radioactive elements, such as uranium and thorium, break down they create radon. This heavy gas emerges from the soil where it enters the atmosphere and it also filters into underground water sources. As radon continues to decompose, it generates solid byproducts that adhere to various surfaces including dust as it floats around in the air.

When individuals breathe in these dust particles that are contaminated with radon, this harmful substance becomes confined in their lungs. Since this chemical element is odorless, colorless and tasteless, it can harm individuals without their knowledge.

What are some of the symptoms that indicate radon exposure?

Low radon exposure generally doesn’t cause any noticeable symptoms, but it’s still dangerous. Individuals who have been exposed to high levels of radon may experience breathing issues, coughing and loss of appetite. Lung cancer is more prevalent in people who’ve been exposed to high amounts of radon over several years.

How can individuals minimize their exposure to dangerous radon?

There are several steps that individuals can take to lessen their radon exposure. Individuals should apply a sealant around all openings and cracks inside the house that aren’t sealed from the outside air and soil. This includes the areas where plumbing pipes run into the house, foundation cracks and drains.

Individuals should also contact a company, such as Central Iowa Radon, that specializes in radon testing and mitigation. A qualified company will come to the home and test the levels of radon by using state of the art monitoring equipment. If the radon levels are high, professionals can install a custom designed mitigation system in the home.

Individuals can learn more information about radon and its harmful effects by visiting To keep family members safe, individuals should seriously consider contacting a professional company for radon testing.