What is Radon Gas?

One of our most common questions is, “What is radon gas?” Radon gas is something that many people don’t actively think about when it comes to their homes or building infrastructures. Radon gas is naturally created by a breakdown of uranium in rocks and soil, which can be found inside and outside. But, what is radon gas? Radon gas is colorless, tasteless, odorless, and most of all, dangerous. Over here at The BrickKicker, we can help you learn about where radon gas can be found and the causes of it.

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What Causes Radon Gas?

What causes radon gas, and where does radon gas come from? Radon gas is created naturally by a breakdown of uranium. Even in small amounts, this production of radon gas releases radiation. The overall decay of radioactive elements creates radon gas, which can find its way in our air, soil, and water supply.

Lower levels of radon can be found outdoors in air or rivers, while indoors higher levels are found in the air inside of buildings, homes, or well water supplies. The level of radon produced is dependent on the rock and soil composition in the area. Radon can get into your home through cracks and holes in the foundation, and any home can have radon issues, including:

  • – New or old homes
  • – Well-sealed or drafty homes
  • – Homes with or without basements

Is Radon Dangerous?

Yes, radon is dangerous. It is classified as a carcinogen, meaning that it can cause cancer. Breathing in radon gas can increase the risk lung cancer; in fact, radon is a leading cause of lung cancer in the United States, second only to smoking. According to the EPA, an estimated 21,000 people die each year from radon-induced lung cancer. Many in that total have never smoked at all.

Exposure to this odorless gas can also result in several radon poisoning symptoms, signifying that a large amount of radon has entered the body and created harmful changes. While there isn’t a specified test to see whether or not a person has radon poisoning, your doctor should be able to determine next steps based on the severity of your symptoms.

Radon Gas Symptoms

Since radon gas can be found inside and outside, it’s important to know what radon gas symptoms are, especially if you think you may have been exposed. Radon can attach itself to small, microscopic dust particles which can be breathed into your lungs. Radon can be released through cracks in foundations, cracks in pipes, or in the basement or crawl space of homes where rock is exposed. Long term exposure to radon gas can infiltrate the lining of your lungs and damage the cells within. Here are a few radon poisoning symptoms:

  • – Difficulty breathing
  • – Pain/tightness in chest
  • – Trouble swallowing
  • – Worsening cough
  • – Hoarseness
  • – Wheezing
  • – Coughing up blood
  • – Unintentional weight loss

The best way to protect yourself against the dangers of radon is minimizing exposure. Professional radon testing is a surefire way to determine whether or not there is radon present in your home and next steps to eradicate it.

Explore Our Environmental Testing at The BrickKicker!

Worried about potential radon poisoning symptoms? Contact us at The BrickKicker if you think your home or work building needs radon testing. Our Environmental inspection services include asbestos, mold, and radon testing.