Sewage backups are a nightmare for homeowners not just because of the potential damage they cause to your property, but also due to the serious health risks they pose. When sewage backs up into your home, it brings with it hazardous contaminants that can put your health and the health of your loved ones at significant risk. Understanding these health risks, recognizing the symptoms of exposure, and knowing how to handle a sewage backup can make a big difference in preventing long-term health issues.
At 247-365.ca, we are committed to helping homeowners understand the dangers of sewage backups and how to protect themselves. In this post, we will explore how sewage backups impact your health, the symptoms of exposure, and the steps you should take if you find yourself dealing with a sewage issue.
A sewage backup occurs when the flow of wastewater from your home’s plumbing system is obstructed or reversed. This can happen for several reasons, including clogged pipes, broken sewer lines, tree root intrusion, or problems with the municipal sewer system. In these cases, wastewater—including waste materials, chemicals, and bacteria—can flow back into your home, typically through floor drains, toilets, sinks, or bathtubs.
Sewage contains a wide range of harmful pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and toxins. These pathogens can cause severe illness if they come into contact with your skin, are inhaled, or are ingested. The following are some of the most common health risks associated with sewage exposure:
Sewage is teeming with bacteria, including Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, and Shigella, all of which can cause gastrointestinal illnesses. Symptoms of a bacterial infection include:
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea (which may be bloody)
Stomach cramps and abdominal pain
Fever
Viruses such as norovirus, rotavirus, and hepatitis A can be present in sewage. These viruses are easily transmitted via contaminated water or surfaces, and they can cause:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Fever
Fatigue
Jaundice (in the case of hepatitis A)
Even inhaling airborne droplets of contaminated water or sewage can pose a risk of infection.
Parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium are commonly found in sewage and can cause severe gastrointestinal illness. Fungal infections, such as Aspergillus, are also common in damp environments and can cause respiratory issues.
In addition to pathogens, sewage water may contain a mix of toxic chemicals, cleaning agents, and household waste products that can be harmful to your health. Exposure to these chemicals may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system, and prolonged exposure could lead to more serious health conditions.
Sewage exposure is dangerous because it presents multiple pathways for pathogens to enter your body:
Skin Contact: Direct skin contact with contaminated water can result in infections, rashes, or irritations. Open wounds or cuts increase the risk of infection.
Inhalation: Sewage backups often release strong odors, and in some cases, airborne bacteria or viruses can be inhaled, causing respiratory issues or viral infections.
Ingestion: Accidental ingestion of contaminated water or food can lead to serious gastrointestinal illnesses. This could happen if sewage contamination spreads to food preparation areas or drinking water sources.
Long-Term Health Issues: In some cases, the risks of sewage exposure are not immediately apparent. Chronic exposure, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems, can lead to long-term health conditions such as respiratory problems, neurological issues, or even organ damage.
If you find yourself dealing with a sewage backup, it’s essential to take immediate action to protect your health and minimize the damage to your home:
If possible, evacuate the area where the sewage backup has occurred. Remove yourself, your family, and pets from the affected space until it has been properly cleaned and disinfected.
Do not touch the contaminated water or sewage without proper protective gear. Wear gloves, boots, and a face mask to minimize direct contact with pathogens.
Sewage cleanup should always be handled by professionals who are trained in hazardous waste removal. A certified sewage remediation company like 247-365.ca can safely extract the sewage, disinfect affected areas, and ensure that no health risks remain.
Once the sewage has been removed, the area needs to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected using hospital-grade disinfectants to kill any remaining bacteria, viruses, or fungi. This process is crucial to prevent further contamination and protect your health.
If you experience any symptoms related to sewage exposure, seek medical attention right away. Your doctor can perform tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and provide the appropriate treatment.
Preventing sewage backups is the best way to protect your health.
Maintain Your Plumbing System: Regularly inspect your plumbing for leaks, blockages, or any signs of damage. Ensure your pipes are properly sealed and intact.
Clear Tree Roots: Tree roots are a common cause of blocked sewer lines. Have a professional inspect and clear roots from your sewer system as necessary.
Install a Backflow Prevention Valve: These valves can help prevent sewage from flowing back into your home.
Ensure Proper Drainage: Ensure that your home’s drainage system is working efficiently and that water flows away from the foundation.
Sewage backups pose serious health risks that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Exposure to bacteria, viruses, parasites, and toxic chemicals can lead to severe illnesses, and it’s essential to take immediate action if a sewage backup occurs in your home. By understanding the health risks and symptoms, taking precautions, and calling in professionals like 247-365.ca for help, you can minimize the impact of a sewage backup on your home and health.