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Complications
By Mayo Clinic staffRadiation sickness itself wouldn't cause long-term medical problems for those who survive the illness. However, the radiation exposure that caused the immediate radiation sickness would significantly increase a person's risk of developing cancer later in life.
Having radiation sickness could also contribute to both short-term and long-term psychological disorders, such as generalized anxiety disorder, major depression or post-traumatic stress disorder. Mental health problems may stem from the fear and anxiety of:
- Experiencing a radioactive accident or attack
- Grieving friends or family who haven't survived
- Dealing with the uncertainty of a mysterious and potentially fatal illness
- Worrying about the eventual risk of cancer due to radiation exposure
