Mercury Poisoning Can Lead to Serious Health Problems

Those who live in or have visited the United States and have suffered from mercury poisoning were most likely poisoned after eating a contaminated fish or shellfish. Fish and shellfish are the most common way to contract mercury poisoning, since these animals can contain methylmercury. Mercury is a chemical compound and it exists in three forms: methylmercury, elemental mercury and other mercury compounds (inorganic, organic mercury). It isn’t uncommon for people to already have some form of mercury in their system, since this compound has become prevalent in the environment.

The severity of a person’s mercury exposure depends on the following:

How long were they exposed to the mercury?
Which mercury chemical form were they exposed to?
How much were they exposed to?
How did they become exposed to the mercury? (i.e. Inhalation, ingestion, skin contact)
How healthy is the person who was exposed?
How old is the exposed individual?

Again, methylmercury is usually ingested when fish or shellfish are eaten. This can be particularly harmful to fetuses, infants and children since it can affect their neurological development. Expectant mothers are urged not to eat shellfish or fish, since mercury exposure can occur in the womb. Those who have been exposed to mercury poisoning will suffer the following symptoms: faulty peripheral vision; pins and needles sensation in the hands, feet or mouth; loss of coordination; difficulty speaking, hearing and walking; as well as muscle weakness.

Elemental mercury poisoning can occur when a person breathes in mercury vapors. This usually happens when elemental mercury is spilled and exposed to the air; usually this is worse in closed in spaces. If you are suffering from elemental mercury poisoning you will likely have tremors, mood swings, trouble sleeping, muscle atrophy, headaches and more. If the exposure is high, symptoms worsen. A person’s kidneys can be affected, as well as their respiratory system. Death is also possible.

Inorganic mercury compounds can also be inhaled and absorbed by the lungs, and they can also pass through the skin. These mercury compounds can also be absorbed by the stomach if swallowed. Organic mercury compounds can reach the body through the lungs, stomach and mucus membranes. If you think you have been exposed to mercury poisoning, contact your physician immediately.