RADIATION SICKNESS Meaning and
Definition
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Radiation sickness, also known as acute radiation syndrome (ARS) or radiation poisoning, refers to a range of symptoms and ill-effects that occur as a result of exposure to high levels of ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation includes X-rays, gamma rays, and high-energy particles, which have sufficient energy to ionize atoms and molecules. The severity of radiation sickness depends on various factors, including the kind of radiation, the dose received, the duration of exposure, and the sensitivity of the affected individual.
Symptoms of radiation sickness typically appear within hours or days after exposure and can vary in severity. Early symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. As the condition progresses, individuals may experience additional symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, dehydration, loss of appetite, skin burns, bleeding, and immune system suppression. In severe cases, radiation sickness can lead to organ failure, bone marrow suppression, and death.
The effects of radiation on the human body are primarily due to damage to cells and their DNA. High levels of radiation can interrupt vital cellular processes, leading to tissue damage and dysfunction. The type and extent of damage depend on the type of tissue, with rapidly dividing cells (e.g., those in the bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, and hair follicles) being especially vulnerable.
Treatment for radiation sickness may involve supportive care to address symptoms, as well as measures to minimize further exposure and promote recovery. Medical interventions such as blood transfusions, antibiotics, antiemetic drugs, and growth factors for the bone marrow may also be employed. Prevention of radiation sickness primarily focuses on minimizing exposure to radiation sources or using protective measures such as shielding and containment.
Common Misspellings for RADIATION SICKNESS
- eadiation sickness
- dadiation sickness
- fadiation sickness
- tadiation sickness
- 5adiation sickness
- 4adiation sickness
- rzdiation sickness
- rsdiation sickness
- rwdiation sickness
- rqdiation sickness
- rasiation sickness
- raxiation sickness
- raciation sickness
- rafiation sickness
- rariation sickness
- raeiation sickness
- raduation sickness
- radjation sickness
- radkation sickness
Etymology of RADIATION SICKNESS
The word "radiation" originates from the Latin word "radiare", meaning "to emit rays" or "to shine". It is derived from the word "radius", which means "ray" or "spoke of a wheel". This term was initially used to describe the emission and propagation of electromagnetic waves, such as light or heat.
The term "sickness" derives from the Old English word "seocnes", which means "disease" or "illness". It comes from the Proto-Germanic word "sekaniz", meaning "sickness" or "affliction".
Therefore, when combined, "radiation sickness" refers to a medical condition or illness caused by exposure to radiation.
Similar spelling words for RADIATION SICKNESS
