Considered a chemical poison, uranium is dangerous in all of its forms. However, depleted uranium (DU) is significantly more dangerous than other forms due to the emission of radioactive particles after burning or on explosion. Despite the danger, DU is an ingredient in military shells that explode upon impact, creating a radioactive cloud that affects those who breathe in the particles.
Instructions
1. Suspect uranium poisoning if you suffered exposure to airborne particles of DU and afterwards you developed chronic respiratory symptoms. Microscopic DU dust particles carry on the wind and you may suffer exposure even if you are not in the direct vicinity of the blast. Constant coughing without phlegm production and chest pressure signify damage to the lungs.
2. Notice changes in your vision and an increased sensitivity to light. Again, these will occur within a few days of exposure to DU but may continue for months, depending upon the dosage of radiation and your proximity to the blast.
3. Take steps to prevent miscarriage if you are a female exposed to DU. In addition to an interrupted pregnancy, you are at a higher risk of having children with birth defects. Males exposed to DU may suffer chromosomal and DNA alterations also resulting in birth defects years after exposure.
4. Visit your doctor for a urine test to determine the levels of DU in your body. Because DU is also a factor in changing healthy cells into cancerous ones, early detection is important.
5. Reduce the effects of uranium poisoning by throwing away clothing exposed to DU or washing it in a solution of 2 percent baking soda to make the DU oxide particles release from the fabric.
6. Increase your intake of citrus fruits if you suspect uranium poisoning. Tests on animals exposed to a lethal dose of DU indicated that sodium citrate increased the amount of DU excreted in their urine and reduced the poisonous effects. Researchers expect a similar effect upon humans, although tests are not complete.
Tags: birth defects, uranium poisoning