From rats to all types of bacteria, problems with your sewer line can not only affect your comfort but your health as well. In this blog, we’ll be discussing the different ways a backup in your sewer line can have a negative impact on your health.
Gaseous Hazards
Sewer gas is the most immediate and potentially deadly health risk associated with sewer line issues. The two main gases found in sewer water are hydrogen sulfide and methane. Both gases are able to cause disorientation and possibly death. Hydrogen sulfide in particular is not only deadly to inhale but also highly flammable, making it a fire hazard as much as it is a health hazard.
Bacteria
Sewage is home to several types of illnesses and diseases, making a backup one of the worst problems for a homeowner to have. Some of the most common bacteria that are harmful to humans are:
- E.Coli - Causes abdominal cramping, diarrhea, and occasionally death.
- Hepatitis - Causes liver infections and induces liver failure.
- Acanthomoeba - Causes eye, throat, nose, and ear infections.
- Salmonella - Induces abdominal cramps and diarrhea.
These types of bacteria can find their way into your home when your sewer line backs up and starts to fill up (or even flood) a sink, toilet, or shower. Each one of these illnesses has the ability to send you to the emergency room, so don’t take the risk if you think your home is having a sewer line problem.
Rodents
Sewers are the home to many creatures, but most notably, rats. Believe it or not, the average rat is able to fit through an opening the size of a quarter and can spread disease simply by the dust they interact with. When your main sewer line is opened, the newfound moisture becomes extremely attractive to disease-ridden rats.
If your pest control specialist is unable to rid these creatures from your home, it could be the cause of a break in your main sewer line, which should be addressed immediately.
If you have the slightest suspicion that your sewer line is in trouble, do not hesitate to contact the professionals at Rudd Plumbing to get the job done. Waiting to get a service is not worth you or your family obtaining an illness. Contact us today or give us a call at (903) 290-0851.