10/26/2023
Radon (Rn) is a radioactive, colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that occurs naturally as the decay product of the elements radium, uranium and thorium. It is a noble (or inert) gas, meaning it is inactive chemically and combines with other substances only under extreme conditions. It is dense — the heaviest known gas — and it is considered a health hazard due to its radioactivity.
There are no widely available medical tests to measure whether you have been exposed to radon. But if you think that you might have been, talk with your doctor about whether you should get regular health checkups and tests to look for possible signs of lung cancer. Possible symptoms include shortness of breath (difficulty breathing), a new or worsening cough, pain or tightness in the chest, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing.
It is common in Colorado to have radon leaching into areas of the home that are below grade. Getting a radon test during your inspection is imperative. If radon is detected, there are simple and effective means to mitigate the gas.