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What does mercury poisoning do5/29/2024 Post absorption, it spreads across all bodily tissues within a mere 30 hours. Methylmercury’s absorption rates are alarmingly high: over 95% in the gastrointestinal system and around 80% through respiratory pathways. As a result, individuals, especially those who consume a lot of seafood, should be cautious and informed about their potential intake ( 6). Further emphasizing its potency, research suggests that when methylmercury enters the human system, as much as 95% of it can remain, showcasing its significant tendency for bioaccumulation. An estimated 90% of the mercury in seafood is in the form of methylmercury. While most dietary sources contain relatively low mercury levels, seafood, particularly fish and shellfish, often have much higher concentrations. Methylmercury is most often associated with seafood. Studies have shown that the major contributor to mercury exposure in humans is the ingestion of food (usually seafood), accounting for over 98% of mercury exposure ( 1). The causes of mercury toxicity are dependent upon the exposure type. What Are The Possible Causes Of Mercury Toxicity? Cognitive challenges or difficulty in decision-making.Alterations in sight, sound, or verbal communication.Numbness in areas like the hands or face.Some patients with chronic low-grade mercury exposure may be asymptomatic ( 7, 9, 10). Signs and symptoms for mercury toxicity change depending on the patient profile, the type of mercury, and the length or quantity of exposure. In extreme situations, prolonged mercury exposure can lead to irreversible lung and potential brain harm ( 7). Both elemental and methylmercury pose risks, potentially impacting the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as the lungs and kidneys. The severity and type of health consequences from mercury depend on factors like the mercury form, amount of exposure, age of the individual, duration of contact, method of exposure, and one's overall health. Mercury toxicity describes the detrimental consequences of mercury exposure, while mercury poisoning is a specialized condition resulting from an excessive amount of mercury contact.Ī predominant cause of toxicity is the consumption of methylmercury, often found in seafood. Mercury toxicity and mercury poisoning, though closely linked, are not identical. Mercury toxicity describes the adverse reactions resulting from excessive mercury exposure. When humans consume these contaminated fish, they, too, become exposed to this potent form of mercury ( 5). Over time, this leads to the bioaccumulation of methylmercury in larger fish species that sit atop the aquatic food chain. As a result, aquatic organisms, starting from the smallest microbes and reaching up to the larger predatory fish, begin to accumulate this toxin. In these waters, bacteria and plankton undertake a process that transforms this inorganic mercury into methylmercury. Methylmercury is primarily formed when inorganic mercury, often released from industrial processes, enters aquatic environments like rivers and seas. Historically used in medicines, their presence is still found in products like skin creams ( 5). These salts might be present in water, soil, and the atmosphere due to industrial activities. Inorganic Mercury (Industry-Related)Ĭommon in the environment, inorganic mercury can combine with various elements to form salts. If spilled, it can evaporate, becoming an odorless toxic vapor ( 5). This silver-white metal is liquid at room temperature and is found in dental fillings, older thermometers, and electrical equipment. Mercury symbolized as "Hg" on the periodic table, exists in several states: Elemental Mercury Plus, we'll share some dietary tips to counteract its effects and dive into supplements and other helpful therapies. In this article, we're going to break down the basics of mercury: what it is, the effects of exposure, and the top tests to gauge its impact on the body. Put in perspective, one 4 oz portion of swordfish contains approximately 4.5 times the WHO limit of 45mcg/day. Larger fish like swordfish and sharks are exceptionally high in mercury. Eventually, humans ingest this mercury when consuming fish. This mercury is then transformed by bacteria and plankton into a form readily consumed by fish. Industrial activities discharge mercury into our water systems. Mercury can affect multiple organ systems in the body.Īs pollution surges, mercury levels rise in tandem. Did you know that the food you eat, especially seafood, accounts for over 98% of mercury exposure in your body? This staggering statistic is a wake-up call for everyone who believes in the importance of a healthy diet.
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