Invisible Dangers Lurking at Home

This article is not meant to frighten or scare anyone. It is, however, meant to inform readers of dangers that may be present inside the home. Because these dangers are not visible to the eye, their presence can easily go undetected. But the damage they can cause can be fatal. Please take a moment and educate yourself on the most common invisible dangers lurking at home.

Radon - Radon is an odorless, colorless, radioactive gas that is released from soil. This gas can leak into new and old homes, regardless of how well they are sealed or insulated. The EPA estimates that 1 in 15 homes across America have elevated radon levels. Aside from smoking, Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer. Protect your family by finding out more about Radon exposure. We'll tell you how it can be tested and treated.

Asbestos - Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used as insulation before the 1980's. It was actually the material of choice in its prime, until it was found to cause cancer. You see, when its fibers are released into the air, it can be inhaled, thereby causing slow-responsive respiratory issues. It can take up to 30 years for cancer caused by asbestos to develop! To find out if asbestos is present in your home, contact your local health officials or visit the EPA website for more information.

Lead paint - Lead was banned from paint in 1978, but if your home was built before that time, the paint inside it may contain lead. This type of paint poses a health risk to anyone living in the home because it flakes and chips, and can be breathed in or even ingested. High levels of lead can cause brain damage, high blood pressure, kidney and blood disease, and even death. To find out if your family is being exposed to this hidden danger at home, contact a certified lead specialist near you.

Mold - Mold is caused by moisture, making it a common problem in basements, attics, or moisture-prone areas of the home. It can quickly grow and will spread through the walls, into the flooring, and settle into ductwork. Although mold is visible to the eye, it is not often understood to be dangerous. Yet, mold can cause lung irritation, respiratory issues such as bronchitis or pneumonia, chronic cough, and more serious health problems. Learn more about this hidden danger at home.

EMR (Electromagnetic Radiation) - In today's world, technology is all around us. With it comes invisible dangers found in virtually everything we use including televisions, wireless internet, computers, cell phones, cordless phones, printers, scanners, fax machines, and many other electronic devices and appliances. Each device puts off a low level of radiation, but when several devices are located in near proximity of one another, the levels are much higher. Some believe that EMR can cause symptoms ranging from fatigue and irritability, to difficulty sleeping and concentrating. Many experts blame ADD and ADHD in children on their exposure to EMR, although it has not been proven. To protect your family from EMR, you can reduce the amount of devices in your home or switch to models that generate fewer electromagnetic fields.

Carbon Monoxide - Some invisible dangers can be easily detected; carbon monoxide is one of them. With the use of a carbon monoxide detector, you'll be able to keep your family safe. This device works much like a smoke detector, and will alert occupants in the event carbon monoxide is present. This hazardous gas can cause mild symptoms, such as fatigue and nausea, to more serious problems like bronchitis, or even death. In the United States, it is the leading cause of death by poisoning.

More from Jennifer Wagner:

What's Causing Your Musty Basement Odor?

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SOURCE:

Personal knowledge and experience

Jennifer Wagner - Yahoo! Contributor Network

http://www.epa.gov/