What is a common symptom of radiation exposure?

Fatigue is a common symptom of radiation exposure because it results from the body's response to the effects of ionizing radiation on cells and tissues. When exposed to radiation, the body may undergo changes that impact cellular health and function, disrupting normal physiological processes. As a consequence, individuals often experience a heightened sense of tiredness as their bodies work to repair any damage and cope with the stressors associated with radiation exposure.

In contrast to fatigue, dehydration is typically linked to fluid loss or insufficient fluid intake rather than radiation exposure itself. Increased appetite and weight gain are not associated with radiation exposure; rather, they suggest different health conditions or reactions. In fact, radiation exposure can lead to a decrease in appetite due to nausea or other gastrointestinal effects, which would not contribute to weight gain. Understanding physical symptoms associated with radiation exposure is crucial for health monitoring and safety in environments where radiation is present.