How your water is making you sick, according to experts
Before pouring a glass, read carefully to discover the warning signs.
You use it to prepare your coffee, make your child's Mac and cheese, and even take them with bubbles after a long day. You suppose your tap water is perfectly healthy, because ... is there no regulation for that? The government has strong legislation in place that prohibits water companies from providing the tap water with certain standards.Drinking Water Act (SDWA) was adopted by the Congress in 1974 and applies the standards of drinking water by setting limits at levels of harmful contaminants, such as lead and disinfectants.
But "the act of consumption of drinking water tests only 91 chemicals," according toDr. Scott Michael Schreiber, DC, DACRB, DCBCN, MS, LN, Cert. MDT, CKTP, CNS, Maine, "so much non-detected and ends with drinking water". Your pipes, faucets or other equipment can also expose you to certain chemicals that can affect your negative health. Here are 30 ways that your tap water could ruin your health.Read on and ensure your health and health of others, do not miss theseWithout signs that you have already had coronavirus.
You can have metal intoxication
Heavy Metal is not just a type of music you hit your head in the 80s. According to a study published in theInternational Journal for Environmental Research and Public Health, a heavy metal is "... any metal element that has a relatively high density and is toxic or toxic, even at low concentration." Although heavy metals occur naturally in the earth, they can easily affirm in our groundwater and cause significant health problems if they are consumed in large quantities. Common heavy metals include:
- Arsenic
- The iron
- Cadmium
- Carry on
- Mercury
- The copper
- Zinc
According toCaleb, Certified health and well-being expert for maple oils, hard water with traces of these metals is normal. However, it warns ", in large quantities, the tap water contaminated by these substances could cause metal intoxication." Symptoms of poisoning may vary depending on the type of metal that you have been exposed, but may include nerve lesions, diarrhea, memory loss or muscle cramps.
RX: Return suggests adding an entry point filter to the valves that you use daily if you are concerned about heavy metals in your water supply. You can also install an entire filter, designed to eliminate sediments, rust and chlorine of your water.
Chemical plants nearby can contaminate your water
Dr. Schreiber declares: "If you live near chemical plants, refineries or other industries, chemicals can contaminate drinking water." Your local chemical plant produces industrial waste, which can affect the country's water supply. According toPublic integrity centerManufacturing factories, mining companies and waste contaminated water supply across the country for decades. A2013 study by the National Research Council found that there were more than 126,000 plants throughout the country that have been positive tested for groundwater pollution. Some of the worst offenders entering our offer include arsenic and lead, which can create a host of negative health effects.
RX: TheEpa Monitors most industrial chemical discharges to ensure they do not have a negative impact on water supply. However, if you live near a potential offender, it is important to pay attention to the quality of your water and examine the annual water quality report provided by your water company. If you have a private well, you are responsible for the quality of your water. Test your water each year and more frequently if you notice any change of taste, smell or color.
Exposure to Chrome-6 could cause cancer
According to the EPA, Chromeium-6 is present in the soil, volcanic dust, rocks, plants and animals. However, when this chemical leaks in our water supply, this can cause problems. Racke warns that this specific chemical is a known carcinogen. For Chrome, the EPA has a drinking water standard of 0.1 milligrams per liter (mg / l) or 100 parts per billion (ppb), confirmed by the SDWA.
RX: Chrome is an odorless and tasteless metal so that it can be difficult to detect yourself. However, the states of slowdowns, "yellow water means the potential presence of Chrome-6". If your water develops a yellowish hue, immediately report to your water company so that you can test the presence of chrome. In most cases, however, this yellowish hue can be attributed to rusty pipes.
Lead can change your child's behavior
If you live in an old house, it is likely that your pipes are corroded if the house has not been repulsed. Lead with corroding pipes can enter your tap water in small quantities. Small amounts of lead in the water are generally not particularly harmful for most people. However, Dr. Lina Velikova, MD, PhD,Bother me Warnings "... If you are constantly explained to this, you may notice symptoms." It also highlights that children are more sensitive to negative health effects. Dr. Velikova says: "Children and infants are at the greatest risk. Some symptoms include behavioral changes, learning problems, lower qi and even slower growth."
RX: If corroded pipes are the cause of the presence of lead in tap water, it may be time to invest in new pipes. If it is a too important investment for the moment, Dr. Velikova suggests: "Alternatively, you can flush your pipes with cold water before drinking it. Always leave the water to run for a few seconds, then use it only cold water, for hot melting the head and mix with it. "You can also install an reverse osmosis filter for your valve or your entire home, which is proven as the most effective to eliminate lead .
You could be exposed to asbestos
"As an expeditor of health specializing in asbestos exhibition, I see many people ignore the dangers that can be present with tap water," says Bridget Rooney fromMesothelioma.com. Asbestos cement pipes were used before the 1980s and if you never pushed back, they could always be present at home today. Since these pipes have been used for years, they can become fragile and start deteriorating. If these pipes are disturbed by the nearby construction or simply begin to corrode naturally, asbestos fibers can start entering your tap water.
The States of Rooney, "Asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma cancer, a very aggressive disease". TheMAYO Clinic Confirms that there are treatments for mesothelioma cancer, but there is no cure and more often, this disease is fatal.
RX: Even the smallest exposure to asbestos is dangerous. The SDWA requires water companies to have informed customers of exposure to this chemical within 30 days. However, if you are worried about your own pipes, ideally, you will have your home re-educated. Ms. Rooney also suggests that you install "... a filter system with a filter to a micron or less". This will filter asbestos fibers from tap water from your home.
You could have a legionnaire disease
TheMAYO Clinic Defines the legal disease as a form of severe pneumonia. An infection causes pulmonary inflammation, which is often accompanied by fever, muscle pain, headache and chills. In addition, coughing, shortness of breath, thoracic pain and other symptoms can be present after the first day of infection. In most cases, older residents, smokers and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to contract the legionaries.
This disease is contracted after exposure to a bacterium called Legionella. According toDr. Anthony Kouri, M.D. From the Medical Center of the University of Toledo, "It is generally spread in aerosolized water, but may be present in ice machines, water filters, water heaters or in a shower head."
RX: The EPA ensures that the SDWA regulations are respected with regard to Legionella bacteria. If this contaminant is present in your water, you will be informed by your water company. According toCenters for Disaster Control and Prevention (CDC), the water management program teams are responsible for monitoring water quality and the presence of bacteria in public water supply and in complex apartments or other Housing facilities.
Excess fluoride could cause neurological damage
According to Michelle Miller, MSACNPhysio logic"," Fluoride has been added to public water supplies in order to prevent dental caries. However, recent research strongly suggests that fluoride-contaminated water is linked to neurological, immune and gastrointestinal damage. The CDC indicates that two out of three Americans are supplied with fluorinated valve water. "A study conducted byHarvard Public Health Concluded that countries that do not fluorine from their water have undergone large drops in the number of cavities residents.
RX: If your water supply includes fluoride, Miller suggests getting aBoomWater gravity filter for your home. This filter is proven to eliminate many contaminants of water, including fluoride. This type of system can be configured regardless of the plumbing of your home and will always leave essential and healthy minerals in your tap water.
Your baby could get a "blue baby syndrome" nitrates
Methemoglobinemia, also known as "blue baby syndrome", occurs in infants when they simply do not receive enough oxygen in their blood. Hemoglobins are responsible for transporting oxygen in our blood. However, with excessive nitrate exposure, hemoglobin is converted into methemoglobin, which forbids it to transport oxygen to the blood.
Adults have mature enzymes that can convert this methemoglobin into hemoglobin. However, infants do not have these enzymes and methemoglobin can be dangerous if it is not treated untreated. Infants with a "blue baby syndrome" can develop a cyanosis, a bluish hue to the skin. If nitrate levels continue to escape, infants can develop permanent cerebral lesions or die.
According to Dr. Kouri, "Nitrates come mainly from fertilizers and can enter drinking water. Babies drink a large amount of water from their size. Even a short-term exposure to nitrates at the level or just. above acceptable level can pose a threat to infants. "
RX: If you get your water from a public water company, it is responsible for the nitrate test. However, if you have a private well and suspect your water supply contains nitrates, tested it with the help of a roomState Certification Agent. There are several ways to treat water containing nitrates, including distillation, reverse osmosis and ion exchange. Remember that mechanical filters and chemical disinfection do not remove water nitrates. You can contact your local health service for advice on the best way to eliminate nitrates of your well water.
You could have Giardiasis
Giardia is a microscopic parasite that causes a disease called Giardiase. TheCDC concludes that the most common symptoms of this disease include:
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Dehydration
- Nausea
- Vomiting
The disease affects nearly 2% of adults and 6% to 8% of children in developed countries around the world and constitutes the most common intestinal parasitic disease in the United States that an infected person has parasites of Giardia in his Fecal materials. If these bacteria feces are present in drinking water, the disease can easily spread. Wastewater overflows, agricultural runoff, stormwater runoff or non-functional sewage systems can cause the propagation of these bacteria to other people.
RX:Avoid drinking tap water after flooding or if you know a sewer system does not work properly. If you suspect that your tap water is infected with Giardia, bring it to boiling before using. You should consider installing an reverse osmosis filter in your home. A filter that has a pore size of 1 micron or smaller or certified by NSF standard 53 for the removal of the cyst or the reduction can also eliminate these parasites of your water.
You can drink volatile organic compounds of nearby dry cleaners
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are present in dry chemicals. They contain carbon and can spray in the air at normal air temperatures. As vapors, groundwater are likely to absorb these VOCs. Once VOCs are fleeing in groundwater, they can easily become present in the water supply. According to a study conducted by theAmerican geological surveyThe VOC group that was most often found in groundwater was trihalomethanes (THMs), which includes chloroform. Exposure to these VOCs can cause various symptoms for many people, including nausea, headaches, fatigue, vertigo, sore throat or other irritations.
RX: Dry cleaners and other industrial companies contaminate the groundwater in your area, which can lead to VOC in your water supply. According to Keith Bernard, CEO ofClear2O"Water filtering at home can mitigate many harmful contaminants before reaching your glass." Consider installing a water filtration system in your home, or even use a filtered water pitcher for your tap water before drinking it.
You could die of lead poisoning
Older water systems can be constructed from lead pipe and these age pipes, small lead particles can penetrate water. TheEpaWarns that lead exposure in your tap water can bioaccumulate in the body. You can not feel symptoms of exposure to this contaminant at first, but constant exposure can result in a decrease in renal function, cardiovascular effects, such as hypertension and reproductive problems. According to Dr. Kouri, "lead poisoning can be mortal if he is not treated." Therefore, it is important to know if your water supply contains lead and if it does, to identify and solve the problem.
RX: If your water comes from a private well, ask for a professional at least once a year so that your water quality remains above SDWA standards. If you want to use a filter to make sure that the lead is removed from your tap water, the EPA indicates that you only purchase a certified filter byNSF International Remove the lead.
You can ingest radioactive substances
Construction, drilling or other disturbances on the surface of the earth can release radioactive substances, such as radon, uranium and radium. These radioactive contaminants can enter underground waters and eventually end up your water supply. The APE concludes that there are different levels of natural radioactive substances in different areas of the country. The SDWA limits the level of contamination of these substances in water and in some cases, public water companies must treat their water so that these levels are acceptable.
However, it is important to know the levels of radioactive faucet water from your home to make sure it is safe. According to Dr. Kouri, "exposure to these substances can lead to different types of cancer, including bones, skin, kidney, liver and lung cancer".
RX: Tina Marinaccio Ms, rd, cpt, a nutritionist of dietitians enrolled in the integrative culinary, suggests that you visit theEnvironmental Working GroupSite and type your postal code to find out more about potential water contaminants in your area. You can also use the site for tips on the best water filter to remedy the problem. If you are dealing with a water quality ratio less than ideal, Marinaccio says, "You will probably need an entire reverse osmosis filter to deal with what your water business throws you."
Too much copper can be bad for your body
Copper is another natural substance that can be found in the environment. At low and manageable levels, copper is essential for the proper functioning of your body. However, according to theAgency for Toxic Substances and Disease Register (ATSDR), copper exposure at excessive levels may trigger negative side effects, including:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Irritation of the nose, mouth and eyes
- Nausea
In some cases, ingestion of too much copper can even lead to death. The ATSDR warns that you can be exposed to high levels of copper if the plumbing of your home is made of copper piping and that your water is particularly acidic.
RX: If you feel that your pipes can expose you and your family members too much copper, you should consider repelling your home. In addition, the ATSDR recommends running your water for at least 15 seconds in the morning before using it. This can allow high levels of copper in pipes to decrease before exposure.
Bacteria or parasites could make you sick
A violation in one of your pipes or corrosion can expose you to harmful bacteria or pests through your water. There are many common bacteria found in tap water, but in most cases, public water companies meet the standards set by the SDWA. If you live in an agricultural area, your water may be more likely to bacteria of the faecal matter of animals. For example, theMinnesota Ministry of Health warns residents who e. Coli and coliform bacteria may be present in their tap water due to the abundance of wildlife and farms in the region.
Exposure to these bacteria can lead to unhealthy symptoms, such as nausea, stomach cramps, vomiting, fatigue, fever and cramps. Residents with already compromised immune systems can deal with more serious health consequences if they are exposed to these bacteria or parasites, including chronic disease or death.
RX: If your water is supplied by a public water company, the EPA has strict guidelines prohibiting the presence of bacteria such as E. coli. If your water supply is contaminated, your water company must notify you within 24 hours. If you have a private well, ask for your water tested each year for these bacteria to be present. Keep your domestic septic tank system regularly with the help of a professional and disinfect your well and equipment as indicated.
Marinaccio says: "You can have your tested water, but if you show symptoms of toxicity, you must have blood and stool tests carried out by a qualified health practitioner to determine a treatment plan to express the Contaminants that are hosted in the body.. "Once you learn which contaminants are present in your water, you can buy a filter that specifically addresses this bacterium or parasite particularly.
You could have hepatitis a
Hepatitis A is a liver disease that can be easily widespread and can cause a disease for several weeks or death, depending on the seriousness of the case. A non-vaccinated person can contract this disease after ingesting microscopic faecal material bacteria from an infected person. In most cases, the water well is protected from a contagious virus such as hepatitis C.
However, according to theCDC, "When any source of water, including private wells, is contaminated by faecal materials of infected human beings, water can potentially broadcast the hepatitis A virus." If a sewer system stops working properly or backup, it can contaminate a well line, resulting in tap water that can contain faeces of infected people. An inappropriate maintenance or function of the well can also lead to this contamination.
RX: Always maintain your well and make sure the sewer system is also operational properly. If you suspect that your well has been contaminated, bring your water to boil for at least one minute before using it to kill all active bacteria. Keep in mind, a PinPoint filter will not help you eliminate the spread of this disease in an infected well. You may need to disinfect your well with chlorine, but you should consult a professional water quality before using your tap water again.
You can ingest pharmaceutical drugs
When pharmaceutical drugs are no longer necessary, it is common for their users to reflect the remaining product in the toilet. Pharmaceutical companies, hospitals and other doctors suppliers can also remove unused pharmaceutical drugs in the water system or in the garbage dump, which is returned to the ground. However, this can allow these drugs to become present in our water treatment facilities and possibly in our water supply.
There are no regulations in the SDWA that directly deals with pharmaceutical residues in water supply. On aStudy of the American Geological Survey"The effluents of two wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) that receive a discharge of pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities (PMF) took place from 10 to 1,000 times more pharmaceutical concentrations than 24 WWTPS effluents through The nation that does not receive a discharge of SMEs. " In most cases, only traces of these drugs are in water and are not enough to produce negative health effects for users.
RX: If you want to make sure that the tap water in your home does not contain any trace of pharmaceutical or illegal drugs, you can use a water filter at home. TheNatural Resources Advice Encourages pharmaceutical companies to produce more "ecological" drugs and to have their excess product responsibly. The EPA also added 10 pharmaceutical compounds to its monitoring list to investigate potential harmful effects. Finally, the legislation can be adopted which sets maximum levels of contamination in public water supply.
You can experience gastrointestinal problems
Although the CDC confirms that the United States has one of the safest public water supply systems, it is always possible to get sick of your tap water. The presence of e. The coli or salmonella bacteria in the waters you ingest can give you flu symptoms that include stomach cramps, diarrhea or vomiting. These two bacteria were among the first 10 most common epidemics of the US water system. In most cases, the symptoms of these epidemics disappear on their own but pregnant women, elderly residents and children are more likely to be serious side effects that could justify hospitalization.
RX: In most cases, the only way to be exposed to bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella in your water is if there was a flooded or natural disaster. If wastewater occurs in a way in the system because of an incorrect operating system, you and your family can be affected. Do not use your water if your powerful or public water system after a natural disaster or during a power failure. Consider getting an entire filter or even a faucet filter for your water.
Your water could contain harmful pesticides
Farmers use pesticides to protect their crops, allowing them to make sure they grow foods that will sell. However, these pesticides can easily affirm in our groundwater and become present in our water. Even if you buy organic foods at the grocery store, your tap water can expose you to these pesticides anyway. The effects of exposure to these pesticides may vary depending on the type and level of pesticides in the water source.
If you get your water from a private well, you are responsible for your water test to make sure there are no pesticides. If your water supply comes from a public water system, the EPA defines certain regulations on these companies so that pesticide levels remain low. However, keep in mind that all types of pesticides are not monitored in our public water.
RX: TheNational Center for Pesticide Information Suggests that you install a pointing charcoal filter or reverse osmosis treatment on your water source. This will eliminate or reduce the amount of pesticides in your water. If you live near a large area of agriculture, consider testing your water for pesticides more frequently than once a year. You can request a local health professional for help in these tests.
The excess chlorine could make you sick
Many water treatment facilities use chlorine in their process of filtering water to kill bacteria and germs. However, when combined with other compounds, it creates chemicals in the form of by-products that can be harmful to your health. According to Raccercke, "an example of one of these chemicals is THMS, which is linked to an increased risk of cancer and kidney problems." If you are a dialysis patient, the chlorine used to treat your water can also negatively affect the functionality of your machine and your equipment. You should consult your professionals in your medicine on appropriate maintenance and chlorinated water.
RX: TheCDC States, "chlorine levels up to 4 milligrams per liter (mg / L or 4 parts per million (ppm) are considered safe in drinking water". If your water supply has excessive levels of chlorine, You must be informed by your public water company. Immediately. However, if you are worried about the chlorine exposure of your tap water, consider getting a water filter from the entire house.
You could get Norovirus
Norovirus refers to all "Norwalk" viruses (NLVs). These are contagious viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting. In most cases, norovirus is widespread by touching an infected person or a surface already affected by an infected person. However, in some cases, Norovirus can be widespread in your private well source.
Overflow of wastewater or non-functional system can cause human excrement in the water source. This is more likely to occur after a natural catastrophe, such as floods. If contaminated bacteria of fecal materials are present in your water and that you consume it, you can be ill with Norovirus for several days and more likely your family members are also infected.
RX: Do not drink water after a natural disaster or a sewer system failure until you get everything that is clear from your water company. Keep your private well maintained and disinfect it when you are suggested. Keep in mind, Norovirus is tolerant of chlorine so that you may be able to use a different disinfectant if you suspect that your well is contaminated. Test your private well water at least once a year and get advice from a professional on how to disinfect it. You can contact your local health service for a list of professionals who can test your well water for contaminants.
You could drink Arsenic
Some rock formations and other natural environments create an element called Arsenic. But just because it's naturally, we do not mean that it's for sure. According toAdministration of food and medicine(FDA), long-term exposure to high levels of Arsenic can increase your risk of skin cancer, bladder cancer, lung cancer and heart disease.
If your water comes from a private well, you risk ingesting Arsenic every time you take a sip. The EPA has strict guidelines and limits on arsenic in tap water distributed by public water companies. However, as the owner of well-private, it is your responsibility to make sure that the arsenic levels in your water are acceptable.
RX:The CDC warns that the heating or boiling of your water does not delete arsenic. You should consider installing water treatment equipment that performs reverse osmosis, ultra-filtration, distillation or ion exchange in each faucet in your home. It is also important to test your well water each year for arsenic and other contaminants. If the levels are unacceptable, consult a professional on the recommended procedures to increase the quality of your water.
Viruses could live in your water
According to Bernard, "most tap waters are contaminated with a variety of pollutants that can increase your risk of serious health problems. Insufficient sanitation, the poor protection of drinking water sources and inappropriate hygiene often lead to wastewater and water contaminated with feces. This can create an ideal environment for bacteria, parasites and harmful viruses. "EPA has strict regulations on the levels of bacteria and parasites that can be present in the Supply of public water. However, your own pipes and water system can be blame for excessive bacteria in your water. Depending on the types of bacteria, you can experience symptoms that include nausea or diarrhea.
RX: "If you show signs of a bacterial infection and that you suspect your water supply, you will need to test it. If high levels of bacteria are present, you may need to install a filter that addresses specific bacteria of your Water.. According to Robert Weitz, a certified microbial investigator and founder ofRTK Environmental Group, "If you have contaminated water, there are usually water purification systems to solve your specific problem. The purification systems may vary depending on contaminants, so it is important to know what is in your water. "
Hard water can irritate your skin
The water supplied to many areas through the public water system is considered a "hard water". It simply means that water is rich in mineral content, including calcium and magnesium. Although hard water is harmless and will not make you sick, it can be frustrating when you use it to swim or wash your hands. This water is known to create a "soap foam" on your skin impossible to wash. According to the USGS, "in hard water, soap reacts with calcium (which is relatively high in hard water) to form" soap Scum ". When using hard water, more soap or detergent It is necessary for things to be clean, be it your hands, your hair or your laundry. "Do not use enough soap can make your washing ineffective and does not correctly kill bacteria on your skin. If you are careful to use enough soap, but you do not wash it properly, it could lead to skin irritation or itching.
RX: If the water hard disturbs you, you can choose to install a water softener in your home. This machine connects directly to your water supply and filter the minerals that make your water hard. In most cases, these systems use salt to eliminate these minerals. Keep in mind, water softening systems require maintenance and you need to see a professional for installation.
You could get sick of Blue-Algae Bloom
Bloom of blue-green algae, also called cyanobacteria, occurs naturally in lakes, rivers and other surface waters. Hot water causes the growth of these bacteria and, in some cases, they can produce cyanotoxins, which can cause health risks in humans and animals if ingested. In some serious cases, this ingestion can lead to death. If these cyanobacteria do not contain toxins but are present in water, they can affect taste and smell.
Public water systems use chlorine and other disinfectants to ensure a BLOOM blue-green algae do not affect water quality. However, if a severe Bloom event occurs in your area, the facility for the processing of the public water company may have trouble monitoring the removal of these bacteria and toxins.
RX: If you know that your region is experiencing a Bloom alga, follow the instructions given by your water company. You may need to boil the water before using or you are prompted not to use your tap water for a period of time. According to EPA, nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus can encourage cyanobacteria to grow. Excessive nutrients like these can flee in the water of local agricultural facilities and industrial centers. Make sure your water has no high levels of these bacteria by examining your water report. You can also install an entire filter that targets these nutrients and bacteria.
Your stagnant faucet could raise organisms
Most bacteria love to grow in wet and dark places then what could be a more perfect environment than the tips of your home? If there is a violation in your pipes or have not been used for a while, bacteria and organisms can begin to grow and reproduce. If you use this contaminated water, you can start seeing negative health effects. According to Weitz, "drinking and swimming in contaminated water can cause chronic health problems, including joint pain; brain damage, kidneys and neurological system; rashes and other dermatological problems; gastrointestinal nonder ; hair loss; and immunity deficiencies. If you or a family member has one of these symptoms, your water may be to blame. "
RX: Old piping or corrodation can be causing an influx of bacteria in your water. Consider repelling your system if it is old and showing signs of wear. The pipes that remained stagnant for a moment can also produce this bacterium. Dr. Nikola Djordjevic, MDMedalerthelp.org, says, "When you come home with your holidays, you should leave the water from all the faucets for a few minutes before drinking it. In case there is an organic infestation or your plumbing system is old, this precaution should Rinse contaminated water out. "
You can drink raw wastewater
If your well water equipment fails or if the sewer system of your public water company backs up or these stops to work properly, it can spell a disaster for water supply. In know-how of a septic tank in your well can cause wastewater in your water. A natural disaster that caused flooding in your area can also negatively affect your water quality. These wastewater can contain e. Coli or coliform bacteria, which can cause disease, including diarrhea, stomach cramps and vomiting. If you have recurring gastrointestinal problems, your water can be contaminated with wastewater.
RX: Hold all warnings about water quality after a natural disaster and follow the instructions provided by your water company. Review the annual water quality report of your water company to make sure your water is cautious to drink. Ask your water well tested each year and all components are tested and maintained properly. If the smell or color of your water changes radically, contact your water company to investigate.
A coal mine nearby could ruin the pH level of your water
If you live near an abandoned coal mine, you can assume that, since the earth is no longer disturbed, you do not have to worry about the chemical exhibition. However, the soil around a coal mine is charged with nasty chemicals, such as sulfuric acid and dissolved iron. According to the USGS, "acidic runoff dissolves heavy metals such as copper, lead and mercury in groundwater or surface water". Not only does this contaminated water negatively affects nearby wildlife, it can also affirm in public water supply and cause problems with drinking water in your home.
If the pH level of your water is not balanced and your water is acidic, it can quickly correct your pipes. This can give your water an unpleasant odor, color or smell. These metals can also make you sick, cause symptoms such as diarrhea or vomiting.
RX: According toWater system board (WSC), if you suspect that your water has been contaminated by a coal mine nearby, it is important to test its level of pH. Your local health service can help you find a professional to test your water. If the level of pH is less than 7 years old, you will need to take action. You can install a pH neutralizing filter and a chemical power pump to filter these heavy metals and inject a neutralizing solution into the water.
Your pipes could be corroded
Whether you are near a coal mine, your pipes could undergo corrosion, which is also dangerous for your health. If your pipes are old, dealing with acidic or damaged water in any way, they can begin to corrode. Not only can it eventually lead to a big leak, it can also expose you to lead, copper, bacteria and other contaminants that can go and your sick family. Dr Kouri says: "Many old water systems use pipes made with lead. As these ages, they can put on water supply." Lead can cause a host of health problems, from disease to death.
RX:Annual water quality report of your water company will not be useful if it is the pipes of your home that cause the problem. If your water has a different taste, the smell or color, corrosion of the pipe can be the culprit you will need to test it from your faucet. A local health professional can suggest a water tester in your area. If there is a problem, you need your new piping home. You can also get a water filter for the entire house, preferably with solid carbon block.
A nearby fuel leak could penetrate tap water
When you fill your car tank from the car, never asked where the gas is stored? It is stored underground in underground storage tanks (RSS). Other industries also use these underground tanks to store gasoline and other underground chemicals so that they are easily accessible. According toSierra Club"There are 680,000 USTS and a backlog of 130,000 cleaning operations, 9000 new leaks are discovered each year. »
When these chemicals or leakage gases of their containers, they spread themselves in the soil and in groundwater. This eventually contaminates the supply of public water. In addition to the essence, some of the chemicals that can flee underground tanks and infiltrate in groundwater include:
- Benzene
- xylenes
- Cadmium
- Carry on
- Naphthalene
The Sierra Club warns, "sting waist hole in a pine a US treasure can flee 400 gallons of fuel a year. While most of the essence in the water is quickly filtered by the system of the public water company, some of them can still be present when it reaches your faucet. If nearby uts flee toxic chemicals, there is no safe quantity for ingestion. Exposure to these chemicals in tap water can lead to cancer. Children exposed to these chemicals in water may encounter development problems.
RX:If you feel that your well water has been contaminated with gasoline or other chemicals, stop drinking. You may need to connect to a public supply of water instead or obtain a water treatment unit specially designed to eliminate the chemical water. If you receive the water from a public water company, follow the instructions provided by the company and do not use the water until the company confirms that it is safe. Hot and hot water is more likely to expose you to these contaminants, so if you use the water for the shower or washing clothing, always keep cold.
PFAS could ruin your immune system from
Derek Mellencamp ofaquasana (polyfluoroalkyl substances defines SPFA) and sulfonate perfluorooctane (PFOS) "chemical compounds that have been used in many products for their flame retardant, non-stick, and waterproof characteristics. Since these aggressive chemicals are used in fireproof foam and other manufacturing industries in the industry, they have become present in our groundwater and in our public water supplies. A study published in theAmerican Journal of Epidemiology found that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was detected in the blood of more than 98% of the American population.
Mellencamp warns that exposure to these chemicals is known for having, "the harmful effects on the growth of infant and childhood, the health of women and pregnancy, cholesterol, kidneys and liver, the immune system and more. " TheEpa and CDC also link these chemicals to certain types of cancer.
RX: Your public water company is needed to inform you if your water is contaminated with unacceptable levels of these chemicals. The company can suggest using a source of water if water is not safe for a period of time. However, if you are concerned about PFAS and PFO in your water, Mr. Mellencacmp suggests installing a water filter. A filter that meets NSF P473 is designed to eliminate these chemicals in the water. If you are not sure, you can visit theNSF website To verify that the filter in question has been certified to eliminate these valve water chemicals.And to cross this pandemic without catching coronavirus, do not miss this essential list:Most coovidants did this before getting sick.