Radiation sickness is probably only likely if exposed to nuclear fallout, and although exposure to such an event may be slim, it is possible.
Radiation levels are measured in RADs and small amounts have little effect, in fact, we probably absorb about 0.6 RADs per year in normal settings, e.g., microwaves.
It is when we are exposed to a big dose in a short period of time that we get sick.
Once exposed to radiation:
Your number 1 goal is to decrease your exposure. Do whichever is the best choice for your situation:
Ø Find shelter.
Ø Leave the area, the further away you are the better.
Halving Thickness:
The effectiveness a material has against radiation in relation to the materials thickness is known as its halving thickness. Denser material has better halving thickness which means better protection.
One halving thickness will drop the exposure by one half. Doubling it will drop it to one quarter and tripling it will drop it to one eighth (1/2 x 1/2 x 1/2) etc.
Here are some halving thicknesses for some common materials:
Ø Lead: 1 centimeter.
Ø Steel: 2.5 centimeters.
Ø Concrete: 6 centimeters.
Ø Soil (packed): 9 centimeters.
Ø Water: 18 centimeters.
Ø Wood: 30 centimeters.
For an illustrative example, if you are in a steel bunker 2.5 cm thick, it will drop your exposure to radiation by one half in comparison to the outside. To drop it by 1/4 you need a 5 cm thick bunker etc.
You can estimate how long you should protect yourself for. Radiation levels usually drop about 1/8th of their level every 24 hours. There are a number of devices available for detecting and measuring radiation.
Symptoms of Radiation Sickness
Different levels of RADs have different effects, and symptoms may arise over time.
30 to 70 RADS: full recovery is likely
Mild headache or nausea.
70 to 150 RADS: full recovery is expected
Decreased immune system.
Decreased wound healing.
Mild nausea and vomiting.
150-300 RADS: may cause death
Moderate nausea and vomiting.
Fatigue.
Weakened immune system.
300 to 500 RADS: may cause death
Dehydration.
Diarrhea.
Fatigue.
Hair loss (over time).
Infection.
Moderate nausea and vomiting.
Skin breakdown.
Over 500 RADS: death almost certain
Anorexia.
Bloody diarrhea.
Dehydration.
Fever.
Hair loss.
Infections.
Low blood pressure.
Spontaneous bleeding.
Stomach and intestinal ulcers.
Treatment for Radiation Sickness
Treat symptoms.
Hydration.
Maintain food intake.
Prevent additional exposure.
Rest.
Seek advanced medical care.
Prevention of Radiation Sickness
Pharmaceuticals:
Potassium iodine (KI) will prevent thyroid cancer. Take 130 mg (a standard tablet) 30 minutes to 24 hours prior to radiation exposure, and then once a day during prolonged exposure. Give children half doses.
An alternative to KI is 2 % iodine. Put 8 ml on your forearm or stomach 2 to 12 hours prior to exposure. Repeat daily. Only apply 4 ml for children under 70 kg, 2 ml for toddlers and 1 ml on infants. Cease after 3 days or when radioiodine levels have dropped to safe levels.
Cautions:
Do not drink iodine, it is poison if ingested.
If allergic to seafood you will probably be allergic to iodine.
Use caution if on other medication such as diuretics or lithium.