HARMFUL EFFECTS OF OVEREXPOSURE TO RADIATION

a. Somatic Effects.

(1) Erythema. This is the reddening of the skin much like that of a sunburn; however, radiation exposure affects deeper tissue.

(2) Radiodermatitis. This refers to dry, flaky skin that doesn't heal easily. Ulcerations may become malignant.

(3) Cataracts. An overexposure to the eye could result in cataracts (a clouding of the lens or of its surrounding transparent membrane); however, this effect will appear long after the original exposure.

(4) Cancer. The cause of most natural occurring cancers is unknown. With increased exposure to radiation there is an increase in the incidence of cancer.

(5) Alopecia (epilation). This is hair loss.

b. Genetic Effects.

(1) Female. The ovaries are especially sensitive to radiation to the female fetus before birth and through childhood. The ovaries decline in sensitivity when the female reaches 20 to 30 years of age. After this time, there is increased sensitivity with increasing age.

(2) Male. Many investigators have recorded normal births from fathers whose testicles had received a radiation dose between 50 and 300 rad. Nevertheless, procreation at any time following such irradiation is ill advised.

(3) An unborn child. Radiation exposure is dangerous to any unborn child. However, the period of greatest danger is between 18 and 45 days of gestation. The results of excessive exposure could result in reduced growth, skeletal malformation, vision problems, and reduced head size which is associated with mental retardation.