What are radiation doses and how are they measured?

What are radiation doses and how are they measured?

Radiation doses refer to the amount of radiation energy absorbed by an object or person. They are measured in units like grays (Gy) or sieverts (Sv). Grays measure the energy absorbed, while sieverts account for the biological effects of radiation.

What is the difference between a gray and a sievert?

A gray (Gy) measures the physical amount of radiation energy absorbed, while a sievert (Sv) measures the biological effect of that radiation on human tissue. Essentially, sieverts take into account the type of radiation and its impact on health.

How can I find out the radiation dose from a medical procedure?

You can usually find the radiation dose from a medical procedure in the information provided by your healthcare provider. They should inform you about the expected dose for procedures like X-rays or CT scans.

Are there safe levels of radiation exposure?

Yes, there are established safe levels of radiation exposure, often defined by organizations like the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). Generally, low levels of exposure are considered safe, but cumulative exposure should be monitored.