If mercury enters the body, it can have serious toxic effects, especially depending on its form and the level of exposure. Mercury can affect various systems within the body, including the nervous, digestive, and immune systems, as well as the lungs and kidneys. Here are some key details:
1. Forms of Mercury and Their Effects
- Elemental Mercury: Found in items like thermometers and some light bulbs, it’s dangerous if inhaled as vapor, which can occur if these items break. Inhalation can lead to lung and neurological damage.
- Methylmercury: A highly toxic form that accumulates in fish and seafood, it can be ingested through diet. Methylmercury targets the brain and nervous system, posing significant risks to fetuses, infants, and young children.
- Inorganic Mercury Salts: Often found in older cosmetics or certain medicinal products, these can damage the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, and skin if ingested or absorbed.
2. Impact on the Nervous System
- Mercury is neurotoxic, which means it can interfere with brain and nervous system function. Symptoms may include memory loss, mood swings, irritability, fatigue, and tremors.
- In children, exposure to mercury, especially methylmercury, can result in developmental delays, learning disabilities, and reduced motor function.
3. Kidney and Lung Damage
- Inhaled mercury vapor from broken items or occupational exposure can harm the lungs, leading to respiratory distress and potentially pneumonia.
- The kidneys, which filter toxins, are vulnerable to mercury damage, leading to kidney dysfunction over time.
4. Immune and Cardiovascular Effects
- Mercury exposure can disrupt immune function, potentially increasing susceptibility to illness.
- Long-term exposure to methylmercury is linked to cardiovascular problems, including hypertension and atherosclerosis.
5. Symptoms of Mercury Poisoning
- Short-term symptoms: Irritability, tremors, numbness, and tingling in the extremities.
- Long-term symptoms: More severe neurological symptoms, kidney failure, and immune suppression.
Prevention Tips
- Avoid consumption of high-mercury fish like shark, swordfish, and king mackerel.
- Handle mercury-containing products carefully to prevent spills or leaks.
- If exposed, seek medical attention, especially if symptoms arise, as mercury poisoning requires specific treatment methods, like chelation therapy.
Mercury exposure is dangerous, so understanding and minimizing potential sources is crucial for health.
