Radiation is harmful. Sockets are more dangerous than radiation

Electromagnetic radiation is the natural habitat of all life on our planet: electromagnetic waves are emitted by outer space above us, sun rays, lightning strikes, household appliances and even living beings. Moreover, if the Earth’s electromagnetic field did not exist, there would be no life itself. Unfortunately, electromagnetic pulses can be both beneficial and harmful. It is worth understanding that the human body is an excellent source of receiving electromagnetic radiation, which means that a long stay in an area of ​​strong influence simply cannot pass without leaving a trace for us. Let's figure out what the influence of electromagnetic radiation on the human body is, and how to protect yourself from it.

Electromagnetic radiation and its sources

This type of radiation occurs as a result of particle oscillations of magnetic and electric fields. As a result, waves with high penetrating power are formed. Depending on the type of emitter, the frequency spectrum and field strength can vary significantly. Today there is the following classification of types of electromagnetic radiation:

• visible radiation or light These are the shortest waves. Moreover, some animals and insects are able to see many more types of radiation, since their eyes are more receptive than humans;
• infrared radiation– this type of radiation is not perceived by the human eye. The most well-known sources of this type of wave are the sun and large industrial devices;
• radio waves– radio waves are considered the longest. They are the ones that come from microwave ovens and many other household appliances;
• UV radiation– Ultraviolet radiation also refers to electromagnetic waves. Sources of UV radiation are the sun's rays, solarium lamps, stars, and laser systems. It is believed that UV waves are a natural source of radiation that can have the maximum effect on humans;
• x-ray waves– this type of radiation is actively used in medicine, allowing doctors to take pictures of bones or internal organs. These waves have a wide range of wavelengths and high penetrating power;
• gamma radiation- the shortest wavelength, but at the same time the most dangerous radiation. Gamma wave sources can be both natural and artificial sources. They are able to penetrate any objects and pass through them. In addition, prolonged exposure to gamma rays can cause irreversible changes and even mutations in the body.

It is worth noting that the earth’s magnetic field is also one of the strongest emitters of electromagnetic waves. However, in this case, exposure to electromagnetic radiation does not have a critical effect on the human body. Over thousands of years of life, humanity has made a huge step forward, learning to create complex technical devices and understanding the power of many natural phenomena. Unfortunately, some of man's creations, in addition to their benefits, carry potential danger in the form of electromagnetic radiation. The most well-known and common sources of electromagnetic waves include:

• high-voltage power lines;
• mobile communication stations;
• television and radio towers;
• electric trains and trams, as well as other types of electric transport;
• transformers;
• most devices with a display, such as computers, laptops or televisions;
• all household appliances powered by electricity;
• sockets, electricity meters and much more.

Thus, electromagnetic radiation surrounds us everywhere: it is impossible to hide or run away from it.

Harm from electromagnetic radiation

Scientists have been observing electromagnetic radiation for a long time and, in the end, came to the conclusion that waves of different strengths and lengths can cause negative influence on human health. Fabrics human body are quite susceptible to electromagnetic pulses, and the body’s reaction to their influence depends on the following criteria:

• radiation power;
• type of waves;
• duration of stay within the range of electromagnetic waves.

Electromagnetic waves cause particles in the body's tissues to vibrate, causing them to overheat. However, human organs have different densities, due to which their susceptibility to EM impulses differs. The following types of tissues are most susceptible to negative changes:

• eyes;
• brain;
• intestines;
• gallbladder;
• bladder.

In people forced long time is under the influence of electromagnetic radiation, the following diseases were most often diagnosed:

• visual impairment, including cataracts;
• problems with blood pressure and heart activity;
• blood diseases that result in the destruction of red blood cells;
• chronic headaches;
• endocrine diseases;
• feeling of chronic fatigue;
• depressive disorders.

Electromagnetic radiation is especially dangerous for pregnant women. early stages carrying a child. At this stage, waves of different frequencies can cause disturbances in the formation of the internal organs of the fetus. As a result, irreversible deformities develop, underdevelopment of internal organs or a complete stop in the development of the embryo and its further death. Electromagnetic waves are also no less dangerous for men. They contribute to the development of potency problems, inhibit sperm activity, which ultimately leads to infertility.

Infrared radiation is considered one of the most dangerous. During its impact on humans and the environment, body tissues overheat. If the temperature rises above 42 degrees, the victim begins to fail internal organs, irreversible changes occur in the blood, which ultimately leads to death. No less dangerous is ultraviolet radiation, the abuse of which can cause skin cancer. In addition to the above, electromagnetic waves affect the human brain, increasing the risk of developing diseases such as Alzheimer's disease in older people.

Physical and psychological impact

It's no secret that some people are more susceptible to electromagnetic radiation than others. This is mainly manifested in increased sensitivity to changes in the earth's electromagnetic field, due to which such people are called weather dependent. If such a person is forced to stay near a source of strong radiation for a long time, then first of all he suffers nervous system And mental health. Common psychological and nervous problems caused by electromagnetic waves include:

• memory impairment;
• depression;
• frequent mood changes.

According to scientific research, people with increased sensitivity to electromagnetic radiation are more likely than others to suffer from panic attacks and unreasonable fears, and are also most prone to suicide. It is important to note that not only older people, but also young people can suffer from hypersensitivity. The hereditary factor plays a huge role in this.

Methods of protection against the negative effects of electromagnetic radiation

Despite the fact that electromagnetic waves are an integral part of our lives, nevertheless, there are many ways to protect yourself and your loved ones from their negative effects. To reduce the risk of electromagnetic radiation, it is important to remember the following rules:

• Try to avoid prolonged exposure under high-voltage power lines, as well as near transformer boxes or powerful sources of microwave radiation. You should not buy land or build houses next to such sources, and it is also not recommended to start a garden or vegetable garden in such places;
• if contact with strong electromagnetic radiation cannot be avoided, buy a special device that allows you to measure the field level;
• Remember that electronic devices must operate for a strictly limited time. If you are not watching TV or sitting at the computer, turn them off;
• Create a computer schedule for yourself and your children. Scientists recommend spending no more than 2 hours in front of the monitor daily;
• if you do not use the Internet, turn off the Wi-Fi router in the house;
• place household appliances, including a TV, at a distance of at least 3 meters from your sleeping place;
• Don't let your children play with phones or tablets.

In addition to the above, experts recommend checking the level of radiation emanating from your wiring and switches. If you are really interested in the safety of your home, you can invite a specialist from a laboratory with special equipment who will measure the background and tell you which device poses the greatest threat. This is the most effective protection against electromagnetic fields and radiation.

Important! Scientists have not yet invented protection against electromagnetic waves, but in some stores, including on the Internet, you can find special devices aimed at suppressing the electromagnetic field. All these “inventions” are a commercial move and are absolutely useless things.

There is no way to completely get rid of the electromagnetic field, but you should not overestimate the harm of electromagnetic radiation. Our body is designed for weak exposure to electromagnetic pulses, and DNA can repair damaged areas on its own. Thus, if the level of exposure to the electromagnetic field is below normal, then a person should not be afraid of it.

Electricity has firmly entered our lives and has become an integral part of it. But technological progress is associated with an increase in the level of electromagnetic radiation (EMR), which has an adverse effect on all living organisms. Electromagnetic radiation is an oscillation of electric and magnetic fields that travels through space at the speed of light. A person does not see or feel it, and therefore is not able to assess how it affects health. Meanwhile, doctors all over the world are sounding the alarm that EMR acts on the body like radiation. Let's figure out how electromagnetic waves affect a person, whether there are ways to protect against adverse effects.

Sources of electromagnetic radiation

Throughout our lives, humans are exposed to electromagnetic fields (EMFs). If the influence of electromagnetic radiation from natural sources (Sun, magnetic and electric field Earth) people are not able to change, but they can reduce the impact from artificial sources.

But actively using achievements scientific progress, a person, on the contrary, increasingly experiences the effect on the body side effects caused by the operation of various devices and mechanisms - electromagnetic waves from artificial radiation sources that surround us everywhere:

• transformers;
• cell phones;
• medical equipment;
• computers;
• antennas;
• elevators;
• household appliances;
• power lines

Energy coming from sources varies in frequency and wavelength– these are the main characteristics of EMF. Scientists have discovered and studied electromagnetic waves of all possible ranges that are used in science or technology. The spectrum of electromagnetic radiation is formed from the totality of all waves.

Spectral range of EMF radiation

The light that is perceived by the human eye is part of the spectrum of electromagnetic radiation, but only a small one. During its study, other waves were discovered. Electromagnetic waves include:

1. X-rays and gamma rays are high-frequency electromagnetic radiation (3 – 300 MHz).
2. Infrared radiation, light visible to the human eye, as well as ultraviolet - mid-frequency radiation (0.3 - 3 MHz).
3. Radio radiation and microwaves are low-frequency radiation (3 – 300 kHz).

All electromagnetic waves are used by humans and have an impact on both living organisms and the environment. The biological activity of waves increases as their length decreases.

Radiation emanating from low-frequency and mid-frequency sources is non-ionizing. This means that harm to health at an acceptable level of exposure to EMR is minimal.

Medical equipment - sources of high-frequency irradiation and ionizing electromagnetic radiation: X-ray machines and equipment - has a strong biological effect on the human body. computed tomography. MRI and ultrasound are not dangerous to the body because X-rays are not used in diagnosis.

The full spectrum of electromagnetic radiation by wavelength is divided into ranges:

• radio waves (100 km - 1 mm) - used in the field of television and radio broadcasting, in radar;
• microwaves (300 – 1 mm) – used in industry and in everyday life: satellite and cellular communications, microwave ovens;
• infrared radiation (2000 microns - 740 nm) is widely used in forensics, physiotherapy, and for drying products or products;
• optical radiation – 740 – 400 nm – human visible light;
• ultraviolet radiation (400 - 10 nm) has become widespread in medicine and industry: bactericidal and quartz lamps;
• X-rays (0.1 - 1.01 nm) are widely used in medical diagnostics;
• Gamma radiation (less than 0.01 nm) is used in the treatment of cancer.

The boundaries between spectrum ranges are considered very arbitrary.

Electromagnetic radiation level

Outgoing electromagnetic radiation from artificial EMF sources can be low-level and high-level. The power level of the source affects the intensity of electromagnetic radiation.

High level sources include:

• high-voltage power lines;
• electric transport;
• towers for television and radio broadcasting, satellite and cellular communications;
• transformers;
• electric lifting installations (elevators, funiculars).

Low-level sources include all types of household appliances, devices with CRT displays and in-house wiring, sockets and switches.

To determine the EMR level, a special device is used - a flux meter.. It records the value of the electric field strength indicator, according to which protective measures are taken if the standards are exceeded.

The maximum permissible level of exposure of the population is the value of EMR intensity at which there is no harmful effect on the human body.

To calculate the radiation dose depending on the source, distance to it and size, there are special tables and formulas. Safe dose electromagnetic radiation of 0.2 - 0.3 µT.

How does electromagnetic radiation affect living organisms?

Numerous scientific studies have led to the conclusion that the impact of electromagnetic fields on the human and animal body is negative, its consequences are disruption of the functioning of internal organs and the development of various diseases.

The influence of electromagnetic waves on a person depends on many factors:

• field intensity (level);
• their lengths and frequencies;
• time period of exposure;
• state of human health.

Sources with high levels of EMF have a greater impact on human health. The depth of penetration into the body depends on the wavelength: long-wave fields act on internal organs, the brain and spinal cord, short waves only on the skin and lead to a thermal effect.

EMFs increase the risk to the health of children and weakened bodies, as well as people susceptible to allergic diseases.

Adverse electromagnetic radiation and interference with constant exposure disrupt the functioning of all body systems and can lead to radio wave disease, the symptoms of which many people experience:

• chronic fatigue;
• state of apathy;
• exacerbation of chronic diseases;
• constant headaches;
• sleep and attention disorders;
• frequent depression.

If we consider that the average urban resident is constantly exposed to the influence of an electromagnetic field throughout his life, then radio wave sickness can be diagnosed in almost every city dweller and the symptoms that arise can be explained precisely by its development. If you do not take measures to protect yourself from harmful EMFs, the risk of developing chronic illnesses(cardiac arrhythmia, diabetes mellitus) and persistent viral respiratory diseases.

After short-term exposure to electromagnetic waves, a healthy body is able to fully recover and eliminate the changes that occurred while in the zone of increased EMR.

At long-term action Electromagnetic rays disrupt the bioenergetic balance of the body, changes accumulate and become stable.

What harm do EMRs cause to the human body?

The harm to health from sources of ionizing radiation has been proven for a long time, and there is probably not a person who does not know about the negative consequences of exposure to X-rays or gamma rays. The impact of EMF from non-ionizing sources on human health is still poorly understood, but scientists around the world have already proven its negative impact.

Main types of anthropogenic electromagnetic radiation:

• high-voltage power lines;
• microwave and radio emissions from wireless communication devices and household appliances.

Electromagnetic fields and radiation pose a threat to almost all systems of the human body. Under their influence:

• the passage of nerve signals from the brain to other organs deteriorates, which affects the activity of the whole organism: brain coordination is disrupted, reflexes are dulled;
• Negative changes in the mental state are detected: impaired memory and attention, in severe cases the appearance of suicidal thoughts, delusions, hallucinations;
• there is an adverse effect on the circulatory system: EMR can provoke the clumping of blood cells, which will lead to blockage of blood vessels, arrhythmia, and increased blood pressure;
• there is a decrease in the permeability of cell membranes, due to which the body experiences oxygen starvation and insufficient supply of nutrients;
• the production of hormones is disrupted, since under the influence of electromagnetic fields there is constant stimulation of the pituitary gland, thyroid gland and adrenal glands;
• immunity decreases (frequent acute respiratory viral infections, sore throats), and immune cells begin to attack their own cells (the occurrence of allergic reactions) due to a drop in the level of lymphocytes.
• the risk of cancer increases - there is evidence that intense exposure to certain frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrum can have a carcinogenic effect;
• sexual function is suppressed in men (decreased potency) and women (failures menstrual cycle, infertility).

Electromagnetic radiation has a particularly harmful effect on the fetus in the womb.

Constant overshoot permissible dose EMR during pregnancy leads to a negative impact on the mother and to pathologies in the development of the child at different stages, especially in the first trimester:

• the formation of defects of various organs;
• slow development of the most important systems of the body;
• stillbirth;
• premature birth.

One study of the effects of electromagnetic waves on pregnant women found a high likelihood of stillbirth and spontaneous abortion when the maximum permissible EMR level was increased. Those participants in the experiment who constantly wore an electromagnetic emitter had twice the risk of miscarriage. If a child is born, he has a high probability of developmental pathologies, since EMR affects the DNA structure, damaging it.

The conclusion is disappointing - the influence of electromagnetic radiation on the human body is negative and negatively affects the activity of almost all of its systems. To avoid its destructive effects on health, it is necessary to take care of life safety (LHS) and methods of protection from electromagnetic radiation.

Methods of protection against the influence of electromagnetic fields

Electricity permeates every corner of our lives: from a simple incandescent lamp to complex industrial installations. Modern man no longer imagines how he will manage without household appliances, communications and telecommunications. Completely stop using electric current and the benefits of civilization are not possible for most of us, but following some recommendations will minimize the devastating health consequences of the harmful effects of EMF.

At enterprises where people are constantly forced to deal with the effects of high-level EMR, they are required to install protective screens and strictly comply with all sanitary and epidemiological requirements and safety regulations.

It is important to know that the level of EMF intensity decreases as you move some distance away from it. So, in order to protect yourself from the harmful effects of high-voltage lines on human health, you need to move a safe distance of 25 meters from power lines or other high-level sources.

Under no circumstances should residential buildings be built closer than 30 meters from sources with high levels of electromagnetic radiation and do not allow children to play near transformer boxes or towers.

In order for electrical equipment to make a person’s life easier, and not shorten it, it is necessary to adhere to the following tips and rules.

1. Find out the degree of danger that comes from various sources of electromagnetic radiation at home and at work using a special dosimeter.
2. In accordance with the indicators, arrange electrical appliances in such a way that they are located as far as possible from the sitting area and dining table (at least 2 meters).
3. The distance from the CRT monitor or TV should be at least 30 cm.
4. If possible, remove all electrical appliances from the bedroom and children's room.
5. Place electronic watches with alarms no closer than 10 cm from the pillow.
6. Do not be near a working microwave oven, oven or heater.
7. It is not recommended to bring cell phones closer to your head than 2.5 cm. It is a good idea to talk through the speakerphone, and keep the phone as far away from you as possible.
8. You shouldn’t constantly carry cellular communications in your pockets - the best place for them is in a purse or purse.
9. Always turn off electrical devices that are not in use, as even in sleep mode they emit a certain dose of radiation.
10. Using a hairdryer before bed is harmful: EMR slows down the production of melatonin and disrupts sleep cycles. You should not use a computer or tablet less than 2 hours before going to bed.
11. In sockets for connecting electrical appliances, it is necessary to check for grounding.

You should know that the steel casing of electrical appliances well shields the radiation emanating from them, and electromagnetic waves can penetrate through walls: electrical appliances located in the next room or with neighbors can also have an effect on the body.

All recommendations must be strictly observed by expectant mothers if they want to bear and give birth to a healthy baby. Excessive use of the computer or talking on a cell phone during pregnancy poses a threat to the health of the unborn child.

Technological progress has made life much easier for people and has given us a wide variety of equipment and electronics, medical devices that help us be healthy, electric transport and elevators. But the negative impact on humans of electromagnetic radiation from electrical appliances and devices, power lines and communication towers cannot but worry specialists and scientists.

Numerous studies lead to disappointing conclusions that without the use of measures to protect against EMF, human health is in danger. Therefore, if there is no opportunity or desire to get rid of all the benefits of civilization and move to live in the forest, it is necessary to protect yourself and your loved ones from the harmful effects of EMR by following the simple rules of the Belarusian Railways for working with electrical appliances and following the recommendations given above.

Radiation is the flow of particles produced during nuclear reactions or radioactive decay. We have all heard about the danger of radioactive radiation for the human body and we know that it can cause a huge number of pathological conditions. But often most people do not know what exactly the dangers of radiation are and how they can protect themselves from it. In this article we looked at what radiation is, what its danger is to humans, and what diseases it can cause.

What is radiation

The definition of this term is not very clear to a person not connected with physics or, for example, medicine. The term “radiation” refers to the release of particles produced during nuclear reactions or radioactive decay. That is, this is radiation that comes out of certain substances.

Radioactive particles have different abilities to penetrate and pass through different substances. Some of them can pass through glass, the human body, and concrete.

Radiation protection rules are based on knowledge of the ability of specific radioactive waves to pass through materials. For example, the walls of X-ray rooms are made of lead, through which radioactive radiation cannot pass.

Radiation happens:

• natural. It forms the natural radiation background to which we are all accustomed. The sun, soil, stones emit radiation. They are not dangerous to the human body.
• technogenic, that is, one that was created as a result of human activity. This includes the extraction of radioactive substances from the depths of the Earth, the use of nuclear fuels, reactors, etc.

How radiation enters the human body

Radiation is dangerous for humans. When its level increases above the permissible norm, various diseases and damage to internal organs and systems. Against the background of radiation exposure, malignant oncological pathologies can develop. Radiation is also used in medicine. It is used to diagnose and treat many diseases.

Infrared radiation is a natural type of radiation. Every person is exposed to it every day. A huge part of the sun's energy reaches our planet in the form of infrared rays. However, in modern world There are many devices that use infrared radiation. It can affect the human body in various ways. This largely depends on the type and purpose of use of these same devices.

What is it

Infrared radiation, or IR rays, is a type of electromagnetic radiation that occupies the spectral region from red visible light (which has a characteristic wavelength of 0.74 microns) to short-wave radio radiation (with a wavelength of 1-2 mm). This is a fairly broad region of the spectrum, so it is further divided into three regions:

• near (0.74 - 2.5 µm);
• medium (2.5 - 50 microns);
• long-range (50-2000 microns).

History of discovery

In 1800, a scientist from England, W. Herschel, made the observation that in the invisible part of the solar spectrum (beyond red light) the temperature of the thermometer increases. Subsequently, the subordination of infrared radiation to the laws of optics was proven and a conclusion was made about its relationship with visible light.

Thanks to the works of the Soviet physicist A. A. Glagoleva-Arkadyeva, who in 1923 received radio waves with λ = 80 microns (IR range), the existence of a continuous transition from visible radiation to IR radiation and radio waves was experimentally proven. Thus, a conclusion was made about their common electromagnetic nature.

Almost everything in nature is capable of emitting wavelengths corresponding to the infrared spectrum, which means the human body is no exception. We all know that everything around us consists of atoms and ions, even humans. And these excited particles are capable of emitting. They can go into an excited state under the influence of various factors, for example, electrical discharges or when heated. Thus, in the emission spectrum of a gas stove flame there is a band with λ = 2.7 μm from water molecules and with λ = 4.2 μm from carbon dioxide.

IR waves in everyday life, science and industry

Using certain devices at home and at work, we rarely ask ourselves about the effect of infrared radiation on the human body. Meanwhile, IR heaters are quite popular today. What fundamentally distinguishes them from oil radiators and convectors is their ability to heat not the air itself directly, but all objects located in the room. That is, furniture, floors and walls heat up first, and then they release their heat into the atmosphere. At the same time, infrared radiation also affects organisms - humans and their pets.

IR rays are also widely used in data transmission and remote control. In many mobile phones There are infrared ports designed for exchanging files between them. And all remote controls for air conditioners, stereo systems, televisions, and some controlled children's toys also use electromagnetic rays in the infrared range.

The use of IR rays in the army and astronautics

Infrared rays are most important for the aerospace and military industries. Various binoculars, sights, etc. are created on the basis of photocathodes with sensitivity to infrared radiation (up to 1.3 microns). They allow, while simultaneously irradiating objects with infrared radiation, aiming or observation in absolute darkness.

Thanks to the created highly sensitive receivers of infrared rays, the production of homing missiles became possible. Sensors in their head react to infrared radiation from a target, whose temperature is usually higher environment, and direct the missile to the target. The detection of heated parts of ships, aircraft, and tanks using heat direction finders is based on the same principle.

IR locators and rangefinders can detect various objects in complete darkness and measure the distance to them. Special devices that emit in the infrared region are used for space and long-distance ground communications.

Infrared radiation in scientific activities

One of the most common is the study of emission and absorption spectra in the IR region. It is used in studying the features of the electronic shells of atoms, to determine the structures of all kinds of molecules, and in addition, in qualitative and quantitative analysis mixtures of various substances.

Due to differences in the scattering, transmittance and reflection coefficients of bodies in visible and infrared rays, photographs taken under different conditions are slightly different. Photos taken in infrared often show more detail. Such images are widely used in astronomy.

Studying the effect of IR rays on the body

The first scientific data on the effects of infrared radiation on the human body date back to the 1960s. The author of the research is Japanese doctor Tadashi Ishikawa. During his experiments, he was able to establish that infrared rays tend to penetrate deep inside the human body. In this case, thermoregulation processes occur, similar to the reaction to being in a sauna. However, sweating begins at a lower ambient temperature (it is about 50 ° C), and the heating of the internal organs occurs much deeper.

During such warming, blood circulation increases, the vessels of the respiratory organs, subcutaneous tissue and skin dilate. However, prolonged exposure to infrared radiation on a person can cause heat stroke, and strong infrared radiation leads to burns of varying degrees.

IR protection

There is a small list of measures aimed at reducing the danger of exposure to infrared radiation on the human body:

1. Reducing radiation intensity. This is achieved through the selection of appropriate technological equipment, timely replacement of outdated ones, as well as its rational layout.
2. Removing workers from the radiation source. If the production line allows, remote control of it should be preferred.
3. Installation of protective screens at the source or workplace. Such fences can be arranged in two ways to reduce the impact of infrared radiation on the human body. In the first case, they must reflect electromagnetic waves, and in the second, they must delay them and convert the radiation energy into thermal energy and then remove it. Due to the fact that protective screens should not deprive specialists of the opportunity to monitor processes occurring in production, they can be made transparent or translucent. For this purpose, the materials chosen are silicate or quartz glass, as well as metal mesh and chains.
4. Thermal insulation or cooling of hot surfaces. The main purpose of thermal insulation is to reduce the risk of workers receiving various burns.
5. Personal protective equipment(various special clothing, glasses with built-in filters, shields).
6. Preventive measures. If during the above actions the level of exposure to infrared radiation on the body remains sufficiently high, then an appropriate work and rest regime should be selected.

Benefits for the human body

Infrared radiation affecting the human body leads to improved blood circulation due to vasodilation, better saturation of organs and tissues with oxygen. In addition, an increase in body temperature has an analgesic effect due to the effect of rays on the nerve endings in the skin.

It was noted that surgical operations carried out under the influence of infrared radiation have a number of advantages:

• Pain after surgery is somewhat easier to bear;
• Cell regeneration occurs faster;
• the influence of infrared radiation on a person allows one to avoid cooling of internal organs when performing surgery on open cavities, which reduces the risk of developing shock.

In patients with burns, infrared radiation makes it possible to remove necrosis, as well as perform autoplasty at an earlier stage. In addition, the duration of fever is reduced, anemia and hypoproteinemia are less pronounced, and the frequency of complications is reduced.

It has been proven that IR radiation can weaken the effect of some pesticides by increasing nonspecific immunity. Many of us know about the treatment of rhinitis and some other manifestations of colds with blue IR lamps.

Harm to humans

It is worth noting that the harm from infrared radiation to the human body can also be very significant. The most obvious and common cases are skin burns and dermatitis. They can occur either when exposed to weak waves of the infrared spectrum for too long, or during intense irradiation. If we talk about medical procedures, it is rare, but still, heat strokes, asthenia and exacerbation of pain occur if not treated correctly.

One of modern problems are eye burns. The most dangerous for them are IR rays with wavelengths in the range of 0.76-1.5 microns. Under their influence, the lens and aqueous humor heat up, which can lead to various disorders. One of the most common consequences is photophobia. Children who play with laser pointers and welders who neglect personal protective equipment should remember this.

IR rays in medicine

Treatment with infrared radiation can be local or general. In the first case, a local effect is carried out on a specific area of ​​the body, and in the second, the entire body is exposed to the rays. The course of treatment depends on the disease and can range from 5 to 20 sessions of 15-30 minutes each. When carrying out procedures, the use of protective equipment is mandatory. To maintain eye health, special cardboard covers or glasses are used.

After the first procedure, redness with unclear boundaries appears on the surface of the skin, which goes away after about an hour.

Action of IR emitters

With the availability of many medical devices, people purchase them for individual use. However, it must be remembered that such devices must meet special requirements and be used in compliance with safety regulations. But the main thing is that it is important to understand that, like any medical device, infrared wave emitters cannot be used for a number of diseases.

The influence of infrared radiation on the human body

Wavelength, µm	Useful action
9.5 µm	Immunocorrective effect in immunodeficiency states caused by fasting, carbon tetrachloride poisoning, and the use of immunosuppressants. Leads to recovery normal indicators cellular immunity.
16.25 µm	Antioxidant action. It is carried out due to the formation of free radicals from superoxides and hydroperoxides, and their recombination.
8.2 and 6.4 µm	Antibacterial effect and normalization of intestinal microflora due to the influence on the process of synthesis of prostaglandin hormones, leading to an immunomodeling effect.
22.5 µm	Leads to the transfer of many insoluble compounds, such as blood clots and atherosclerotic plaques, into a soluble state, allowing them to be removed from the body.

Therefore, a qualified specialist, an experienced doctor, should select a course of therapy. Depending on the length of the emitted infrared waves, the devices can be used for different purposes.

Radiation is radiation invisible to the human eye, which nevertheless has a powerful effect on the body. Unfortunately, the consequences of radiation for humans are extremely negative.

Initially, radiation affects the body from the outside. It comes from natural radioactive elements that are found in the earth, and also enters the planet from space. Also, external radiation comes in microdoses from building materials and medical X-ray machines. Large doses of radiation can be found in nuclear power plants, special physics laboratories and uranium mines. Nuclear weapons testing sites and radiation waste disposal sites are also extremely dangerous.

To a certain extent, our skin, clothing and even our homes protect from the above radiation sources. But the main danger of radiation is that exposure can be not only external, but also internal.

Radioactive elements can penetrate air and water, through cuts in the skin and even through body tissue. In this case, the radiation source lasts much longer - until it is removed from the human body. You can’t protect yourself from it with a lead plate and it’s impossible to get away, which makes the situation even more dangerous.

Radiation dosage

In order to determine the radiation power and the degree of impact of radiation on living organisms, several measurement scales were invented. First of all, the power of the radiation source in Grays and Rads is measured. Everything is quite simple here. 1 Gy=100R. This is how exposure levels are determined using a Geiger counter. The X-ray scale is also used.

But you should not assume that these readings reliably indicate the degree of health hazard. It is not enough to know the radiation power. The effect of radiation on the human body also varies depending on the type of radiation. There are 3 of them in total:

1. Alpha. These are heavy radioactive particles - neutrons and protons, which cause the greatest harm to humans. But they have little penetrating power and are not able to penetrate even the upper layers of the skin. But if there are wounds or particles in the air,
2. Beta. These are radioactive electrons. Their penetration capacity is 2 cm of skin.
3. Gamma. These are photons. They freely penetrate the human body, and protection is possible only with the help of lead or a thick layer of concrete.

Radiation exposure occurs at the molecular level. Irradiation leads to the formation of free radicals in body cells, which begin to destroy surrounding substances. But, taking into account the uniqueness of each organism and the uneven sensitivity of organs to the effects of radiation on humans, scientists had to introduce the concept of an equivalent dose.

To determine how dangerous radiation is in a particular dose, the radiation power in Rads, Roentgens and Grays is multiplied by the quality factor.

For Alpha radiation it is equal to 20, and for Beta and Gamma it is 1. X-rays also have a coefficient of 1. The result obtained is measured in Rem and Sievert. With a coefficient equal to one, 1 Rem is equal to one Rad or Roentgen, and 1 Sievert is equal to one Gray or 100 Rem.

To determine the degree of exposure of an equivalent dose to the human body, it was necessary to introduce another risk factor. It is different for each organ, depending on how radiation affects individual tissues of the body. For the organism as a whole it is equal to one. Thanks to this, it was possible to create a scale of the danger of radiation and its impact on humans after a single exposure:

• 100 Sievert. This is a quick death. A few hours later, and in best case scenario days the body's nervous system stops functioning.
• 10-50 is a lethal dose, as a result of which a person will die from numerous internal hemorrhages after several weeks of suffering.
• 4-5 Sievert – -mortality rate is about 50%. Due to damage to the bone marrow and disruption of the hematopoietic process, the body dies after a couple of months or less.
• 1 sievert. It is from this dose that radiation sickness begins.
• 0.75 Sievert. Short-term changes in the composition of the blood.
• 0.5 – this dose is considered sufficient to cause the development of cancer. But there are usually no other symptoms.
• 0.3 Sievert. This is the power of the device when taking an X-ray of the stomach.
• 0.2 Sievert. This is the safe level of radiation allowed when working with radioactive materials.
• 0.1 – with a given radiation background, uranium is mined.
• 0.05 Sievert. Norm of background radiation from medical equipment.
• 0.005 Sievert. Permissible radiation level near nuclear power plants. This is also the annual exposure limit for the civilian population.

Consequences of radiation exposure

The dangerous effect of radiation on the human body is caused by the effect of free radicals. They are formed at the chemical level due to exposure to radiation and primarily affect rapidly dividing cells. Accordingly, the hematopoietic organs and reproductive system suffer to a greater extent from radiation.

But the radiation effects of human exposure are not limited to this. In the case of delicate tissues of mucous and nerve cells, their destruction occurs. Because of this, various mental disorders can develop.

Often, due to the effect of radiation on the human body, vision suffers. With a large dose of radiation, blindness can occur due to radiation cataracts.

Other body tissues undergo qualitative changes, which is no less dangerous. It is because of this that the risk of cancer increases many times over. Firstly, the structure of tissues changes. And secondly, free radicals damage the DNA molecule. Due to this, cell mutations develop, which leads to cancer and tumors in various organs of the body.

The most dangerous thing is that these changes can persist in descendants due to damage to the genetic material of the germ cells. On the other hand, the opposite effect of radiation on humans is possible – infertility. Also, in all cases without exception, radiation exposure leads to rapid deterioration of cells, which accelerates the aging of the body.

Mutations

The plot of many science fiction stories begins with how radiation leads to mutation in a person or animal. Typically, the mutagenic factor gives the main character various superpowers. In reality, radiation affects a little differently - first of all, the genetic consequences of radiation affect future generations.

Due to disturbances in the DNA molecule chain caused by free radicals, the fetus may develop various abnormalities associated with problems of internal organs, external deformities or mental disorders. Moreover, this violation may extend to future generations.

The DNA molecule is involved not only in human reproduction. Each cell of the body divides according to the program laid down in the genes. If this information damaged, cells begin to divide incorrectly. This leads to the formation of tumors. It is usually contained by the immune system, which tries to limit the damaged area of ​​tissue, and ideally get rid of it. But due to immunosuppression caused by radiation, mutations can spread uncontrollably. Because of this, tumors begin to metastasize, turning into cancer, or grow and put pressure on internal organs, such as the brain.

Leukemia and other types of cancer

Due to the fact that the effect of radiation on human health primarily affects the hematopoietic organs and circulatory system, the most common consequence of radiation sickness is leukemia. It is also called “blood cancer”. Its manifestations affect the entire body:

1. A person loses weight, and there is no appetite. It is constantly accompanied by muscle weakness and chronic fatigue.
2. Joint pain appears and they begin to react more strongly to environmental conditions.
3. Lymph nodes become inflamed.
4. The liver and spleen enlarge.
5. Breathing becomes difficult.
6. Purple rashes appear on the skin. The person sweats frequently and profusely, and bleeding may occur.
7. Immunodeficiency appears. Infections freely penetrate the body, which often causes the temperature to rise.

Before the events in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, doctors did not consider leukemia to be a radiation disease. But 109 thousand Japanese people examined confirmed the connection between radiation and cancer. It also revealed the likelihood of damage to certain organs. Leukemia came first.

Then the radiation effects of human exposure most often lead to:

1. Breast cancer. Every hundredth woman who survives severe radiation exposure is affected.
2. Thyroid cancer. It also affects 1% of those exposed.
3. Lung cancer. This variant manifests itself most strongly in irradiated miners of uranium mines.

Fortunately, modern medicine can handle it quite well oncological diseases on early stages, if the effect of radiation on human health was short-term and rather weak.

What affects the effects of radiation

The effects of radiation on living organisms vary greatly depending on the strength and type of radiation: alpha, beta or gamma. Depending on this, the same dose of radiation can be practically safe or lead to sudden death.

It is also important to understand that the effects of radiation on the human body are rarely simultaneous. Getting a dose of 0.5 Sievert at a time is dangerous, and 5-6 is fatal. But having done a few x-rays 0.3 Sievert for a certain time, a person allows the body to cleanse itself. That's why negative consequences radiation exposure simply does not appear, since with a total dose of several Sieverts, only a small part of the radiation will affect the body at a time.

Besides, various consequences The effects of radiation on humans strongly depend on the individual characteristics of the organism. A healthy body resists the destructive effects of radiation longer. But the best way to ensure the safety of radiation for humans is to have as little contact with radiation as possible to minimize damage.