How does the body respond to high doses of radiation exposure?

The body responds to high doses of radiation exposure primarily through mechanisms that can lead to acute radiation syndrome (ARS) and long-term health effects, such as cancer. When a person is exposed to significant amounts of radiation in a short period, it can cause immediate damage to the body’s cells and tissues. This includes severe damage to the bone marrow, gastrointestinal tract, and central nervous system, resulting in symptoms of ARS, which can manifest as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and in severe cases, can lead to death.

Furthermore, the long-term consequences of high radiation exposure include an increased risk of cancer, as radiation can cause mutations in the DNA of cells. These mutations may remain dormant for years before leading to the development of malignancies. Therefore, understanding the impacts of high doses of radiation is crucial for assessing risks and implementing safety measures in environments where radiation exposure is a possibility.