Which physical signs may indicate exposure to radiation?

The presence of skin burns and symptoms of radiation sickness serves as clear indicators of radiation exposure. These signs are well-documented and represent direct physiological effects resulting from exposure to ionizing radiation. Skin burns can occur due to high doses of radiation affecting the skin's cells, leading to cell damage, inflammation, and surface burns. Radiation sickness encompasses a range of severe symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and changes in blood cell counts, arising from damage to internal organs and systems due to high levels of radiation exposure.

In contrast, sudden weight loss may be a nonspecific symptom associated with various medical conditions, but it doesn't specifically relate to radiation exposure. Headaches and fatigue alone do not conclusively indicate radiation exposure, as they can result from many other factors such as stress or illness. An increased heart rate might be a physiological response to stress or anxiety but does not provide definitive evidence of radiation exposure nor is it a primary sign of radiation-related health effects. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in effectively recognizing and responding to potential radiation exposure scenarios.