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Mercury poisoning
From CopperWiki
Mercury poisoning is caused by over-exposure of mercury on the human nervous system and other bodily systems. The risk of mercury poisoning depends on the exposure to mercury, the frequency, the form and the age of the person exposed. Children (and also unborn fetuses) are the most vulnerable.
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[edit] Why should I be aware of this?
Though most uses of mercury have been discontinued since its harmful effects were determined, it still exists around us and we could still be at risk of mercury poisoning. babies and children are at a higher risk since their systems are not equipped to handle heavy metals to any degree. How does this affect me? Mercury can still be found in some medical products, such as thermometers and is found in plenty in the environment, because of pollution from use of fossil fuels. It also occurs naturally when seawater evaporates and during other completely natural events. We cannot avoid inhalation or ingestion of the metal up to a certain level, but at higher levels it is definitely toxic.
[edit] How does this affect me?
Mercury can affect us anytime, even in our homes. Apart from thermometers, it is used in paint, batteries, and many other industrial and household uses. It is also used as 50% of the contents of amalgam dental fillings.
The most common form of mercury ingestion is through fish. Mercury undergoes a chemical reaction when it evaporates. When it falls back with rain and collects in bodies, a secondary form called methylmercury is formed and this is then ingested by fish. Tuna, shark and swordfish are the species of fish which are the most likely to have high concentrations of mercury.
We can also inhale mercury when objects contaminated with the heavy metal are burned and the vapor is released into the air. Inhaled mercury causes a much faster build up and can cause poisoning very rapidly.
[edit] All about mercury poisoning
Global mercury emissions today range from 4,400 to 7,500 tonnes per year, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Natural sources such as volcanoes account for about half, with coal-fired power plants, smelters and incinerators contributing the remainder. [1]
Mercury is a slow killer and though it can't be rapidly absorbed through the stomach or intestines it can be easily breathed and sent straight to the brain. Mercury poisoning is very difficult to diagnose and is often mistaken as allergies, Alzheimer's, anxiety, asthma, colitis, bipolar disease, lupus, Parkinson's disease, insomnia, or multiple sclerosis because most symptoms are similar to those of other diseases and ailments.
[edit] Symptoms
- Psychological disturbances
These symptoms include angry fits, short term memory loss, low self esteem, inability to sleep, loss of self-control, sleepiness, inability to learn new things.
- Oral Cavity problems
Mouth gets inflamed, there’s loss of bone around teeth, ulcers form around gums and other areas in the mouth, loose teeth, darkening and bleeding of gums.
- Digestive tract problems
Cramps, inflamed colon, diarrhea and other digestive problems.
- Cardiovascular problems
Weak pulse, fluctuating blood pressure changes, pain in the chest, or feeling of pressure in the chest area.
- Respiratory problems
Weakness and breathing problems. Emphysema, persistent coughing
- Neurological Problems
Headaches, vertigo, tinnitus, shaking in various areas of the body.
[edit] What can I do?
Anyone whose work involves handling mercury or products containing mercury should follow correct safety measures such as using the correct safety gear, including gloves and a vapor respirator. Special clean up and containment kits are available in case of leaks.
The work environment should be so designed that it minimizes workers’ exposure. It is recommended that mercury's uses in buildings be eliminated. By doing so we can keep mercury out of the environment.
[edit] CopperBytes
- Mercury was one of the first metals known and its compounds have been used throughout history. [2]
- Archaeologists found mercury in an Egyptian tomb dating from 1500 BC.
- The first account of mercury poisoning was recorded as early as 50 B.C.
- The Mad Hatter, made famous in Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland, was "mad" as a result of mercury poisoning.
