The Dangers of Contaminated Drinking Water
January 26, 2023Contaminated drinking water can be very dangerous. While the EPA has set guidelines for PFAS levels, the guidelines vary from state to state. This can increase the amount of contaminants in your water, as well as lead to more diseases and illnesses. For example, fluorosis, salmonella, and diarrhea are all diseases and illnesses that can be linked to contaminated drinking water.
PFAS Guidelines Vary Across The Country
Many states have taken action to reduce exposure to PFAS chemicals. Some have imposed bans on certain products and enacted more stringent drinking water standards. Others have been more modest in their efforts.
The United States government has done a little bit of both. It has provided technical support and financial assistance to states implementing PFAS guidelines. But it’s also been slower to put a national-level policy in place.
In response, states have adopted a patchwork of regulations. These include bans, drinking water standards, and guidelines for PFAS analysis. As with any other piece of legislation, there are variables that will determine how a state will implement these policies.
PFAS Concentrations Are Below The Advisory Level Set By The EPA
Perfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS, are a family of synthetic compounds that have been used in industrial processes for decades. They are designed to resist degradation under ambient and extreme conditions.
A number of states have taken action to address PFAS in their drinking water. In addition, there is growing interest in regulating discharges of PFAS into public waters. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently released health advisories that are intended to provide technical information to federal, state, and local officials.
PFAS include perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS). The PFOS advisory has been reduced to 0.02 parts per trillion, and the PFBS advisory is set at 2,000 parts per trillion.
PFAS Guidelines Can Lead To Increased Contaminants
If you live in a community where drinking water has PFAS contamination, you may be concerned about your health. Fortunately, the Environmental Protection Agency has recently released health advisories for PFAS. These health advisories identify drinking water levels below which harmful effects are not expected. However, they are not enforceable. Nevertheless, they can provide important information to federal, state, and local officials.
PFAS health advisories are based on recently available scientific information. They also take into account other potential sources of exposure. For example, there are many different sources of PFAS, including air, food, and other products. In addition, people can be exposed through intra-species variation.
Diarrhea Can Be Caused By Contaminated Drinking Water
The presence of bacteria, viruses or parasites in contaminated drinking water can lead to diarrhea. This disease can be either acute or chronic and can be a source of dehydration.
Acute diarrhea is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, usually of the gastrointestinal tract. It is usually characterized by loose stools that pass infrequently and are sometimes accompanied by fever and bloating. Often, the symptoms go away on their own after a few days. However, severe or frequent diarrhea is a sign of a more serious disease.
Chronic or prolonged diarrhea is a symptom of irritable bowel syndrome or a functional disorder, but can also be due to an allergy or a side effect of other drugs. It can be mild or severe, and is a common occurrence in children.
Salmonella Can Be Infected By Contaminated Drinking Water
Salmonella is a bacterial infection that causes diarrhea. This infection can be caused by contact with infected animals, food, or contaminated water. Symptoms usually start six to 72 hours after exposure to the bacteria. The illness can be serious and can affect the brain, nervous system, and bones. It is important to see a doctor if you experience severe symptoms.
When a person becomes infected, they can pass the disease to other people. Most often, the infection is acquired from contaminated foods, such as raw poultry, seafood, or dairy products. To prevent the infection, it is advisable to wash your hands before and after you handle raw meat or animal products.
Fluorosis Can Be Caused By Contaminated Drinking Water
Fluorosis is a medical condition that can result from high concentrations of fluoride in drinking water. This condition can cause changes in the enamel and other tissues of the teeth. It is most commonly seen in children.
In addition to affecting the tooth enamel, it can also result in discoloration of the teeth and white spots. These spots can be noticed on the teeth’s surface or the gums.
Dental caries is a common childhood disease that occurs when bacteria grow on the surfaces of the teeth. The bacteria generate lactic acid that breaks down the enamel and dentin. If left untreated, the infection can result in toothaches and an abscess.