Exposure to radiation carries two types of health risks: those associated with low level long-term exposure such as cancer and DNA mutation and those from short-term high levels – acute exposure – including burns and radiation sickness.
Hair can fall out. Skin can be burnt and bruised by radiation. Inflammation and sores can occur in the mouth and throat and gums can become diseased teeth loose or even fall out. The thyroid gland absorbs radioactive Iodine-131 with half-life of 8 days. High cancer risk especially in children. Taking stable iodine can protect thyroid. Lungs can be inflamed and scarred. Red blood cells can have a low platelet count with spontaneous bleeding. Stomach can have internal bleeding. Liver and other organs can shut down and risk of cancer is increased. Bleeding and ulcers can occur in the small intestine. Sterility can occur temporarily or permanently. Pregnant women have a greater risk of still birth deformities and genetic problems. Bone marrow can be depleted.