Mercury - Whole Blood

Overview

Mercury is a naturally occurring element that can be found in air, water, and soil. Measuring mercury levels in whole blood helps determine how much of this heavy metal is present in your body. Mercury can enter the bloodstream through various sources, such as eating certain types of fish, exposure in the workplace, or environmental pollution. Once in the body, mercury can affect the nervous system, brain, kidneys, and developing fetuses. By testing mercury levels in your blood, we can assess your exposure to this potentially harmful substance and take steps to reduce it if necessary. It's like checking the quality of water you drink to ensure it's safe and free from contaminants that could affect your health.

Testing Levels:

• High (10 μg/L) - If your mercury levels are higher than the reference range, it indicates excessive exposure to mercury. High levels can lead to symptoms like muscle weakness, numbness or tingling in the hands and feet, coordination problems, and difficulties with speech and hearing. In severe cases, it can affect kidney function and harm the nervous system. It's important to identify and eliminate the source of mercury exposure. Your healthcare provider may recommend dietary changes, workplace adjustments, or medical treatments to help reduce mercury levels in your body.
  
  
• Mid - Mercury levels within the reference range indicate that your exposure is within safe limits. This means that your body isn't accumulating harmful amounts of mercury, and no action is needed. Continuing to maintain a balanced diet and being mindful of environmental exposures will help keep your levels normal.
  
  Results nearing the upper limit suggest that you're approaching excessive mercury exposure. While you might not have symptoms yet, it's a good time to evaluate your diet and environment to prevent levels from rising further. Reducing intake of high-mercury fish and being cautious about potential sources of exposure can help keep your levels within a safe range.
  
  Mercury is not beneficial to the body, so having levels close to the lower limit is positive. It means minimal exposure, reducing the risk of mercury-related health issues. No specific action is required, but it's always good to stay informed about potential sources of mercury.
  
  
• Low ( μg/L) - Levels below the reference range are ideal since mercury isn't necessary for bodily functions and can be toxic. Low levels indicate that you have little to no exposure, which is beneficial for your health. No action is needed.

Why We Test Mercury - Whole Blood

Testing for mercury is important if you suspect exposure due to diet, occupation, or environment. Early detection helps prevent potential health problems like nerve damage or kidney issues. Pregnant women should be particularly cautious, as mercury can affect fetal development. By knowing your mercury levels, you can take steps to reduce exposure and protect your health.

What Affects It

Several factors can influence mercury levels in your blood. Consuming fish and shellfish high in mercury, like shark, swordfish, or king mackerel, can elevate levels. Occupational exposure in industries such as mining, manufacturing, or dentistry can also contribute. Environmental factors, like living near industrial areas or using products containing mercury (some skin creams or traditional medicines), may affect levels. Age, diet, and kidney function can influence how mercury is processed and eliminated from your body.

How to Improve

If your mercury levels are high or approaching high, you can reduce them by limiting consumption of high-mercury fish and opting for varieties like salmon, tilapia, or shrimp, which have lower levels. If occupational exposure is a factor, use protective equipment and follow safety protocols. Avoid products known to contain mercury. Staying hydrated and maintaining kidney health can aid in eliminating mercury from your body. If your levels are low or close to low, continue your current practices, as this indicates minimal exposure.

Common Name: Hg