Exposure to radiation

Radiation exposure can cause a variety of effects in the human body, collectively known as radiation sickness. Exposure to radiation can be accidental, therapeutic or intentional. Treatment of radiation sickness is largely in favour, and prevention is best achieved by avoiding exposure to radiation.

Radiation syndrome results from excessive exposure to radiation, which may be accidental or intentional. It can occur with a large single exposure or a series of smaller exhibitions.

Include sources of radiation: Background radiation, such as cosmic radiation and radiation natural radioisotopes of common elements. Exposure to accidents, which may result from accidents in nuclear power plants, industry and research. Therapeutic exposure, diagnostic imaging, in the form of x-rays, CT and other analyses, such as wellhyperthyroidism. Intentional exposure, such as strategic nuclear explosions.Radiation can be classified according to the type of radiation: Radiation non-ionizing, which generally causes no significant tissue damage: IE. Turn on the radar, microwave, wave ultraviolet, waves. Ionizing radiation, which can damage tissues: IE. x-rays, gamma rays, particles, including neutrons, beta particles, protons, alpha particles and electron beams.

Acute effects:

Hematopoietic syndrome causes lymphopenia within days and neutropenia and thrombocytopenia in 2-3 weeks. Gastrointestinal syndrome results in vomiting within hours and diarrhoea and vomiting within 4 days. CNS syndrome causes nausea, vomiting, disorientation, coma and brain swelling within hours. Radiation dermatitis translates an Erythema, purpura, blistering, infection secondary and loss of body hair.Delay effects: Infertility teratogenesis cataracts cancer, including myeloid leukemia acute, thyroid, salivary glands and skin

Acute radiation syndrome is a medical emergency. Treatment is largely in favour of preventive measures. Treatment of complications such as infection, bleeding and loss of liquid is essential.

Avoid exposure whenever possible. Use shields on parts of the body, not be treated upon receipt of diagnostic imaging or radiation therapy treatment.Average annual radiation exposure background = 2.5 mSv radiography = 0.02 mSv enema = 7 mSv CT abdomen/basin = 10 mSv hematopoietic effects = 100 to 500 mSv lowest dose resulting in some deaths = 1 or 2 Sv Dose at which 50% of people will survive not = 3 to 4 Sv Dose at which there is virtually no chance of survival = 10-12 SvDainiakN. Waselenko, j. Biology and clinical characteristics of radiation injury in adults. 2005 UpToDate. Kumar, P. Clarke, M. clinical medicine. 5th ed. 2002. WB Saunders.

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