Mercury

Overview

Mercury is a heavy metal that can be measured in blood, urine, or hair samples as a biomarker of exposure to this toxic substance. Mercury exists in several forms in the environment, including elemental mercury (found in thermometers and dental amalgams), inorganic mercury compounds, and organic mercury (such as methylmercury found in fish). When mercury enters the body, it can accumulate in various tissues and organs, particularly the brain, kidneys, and nervous system. Mercury testing is important because this metal is neurotoxic and can cause serious health problems even at relatively low levels. Common sources of mercury exposure include consuming contaminated fish, dental amalgam fillings, certain vaccines, and occupational exposure in industries like mining or manufacturing. Elevated mercury levels can lead to neurological symptoms, kidney damage, and developmental problems, especially in pregnant women and children. Healthcare providers may order mercury testing when patients have unexplained neurological symptoms, suspected occupational exposure, or as part of a comprehensive heavy metals panel. The results help determine if mercury toxicity is contributing to health issues and guide appropriate treatment or exposure reduction strategies.

Testing Levels:

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• Low ( ) -

Why We Test Mercury

Mercury testing is important because mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can accumulate in the body through exposure to contaminated fish, dental amalgams, industrial pollution, or occupational hazards. Elevated mercury levels can cause neurological symptoms including memory problems, tremors, mood changes, and cognitive impairment, as well as kidney damage and cardiovascular issues. Testing mercury levels helps identify potential toxicity, guide treatment decisions for chelation therapy if needed, and monitor exposure reduction efforts. This biomarker is particularly valuable for individuals with high fish consumption, those working in mercury-exposed environments, or patients presenting with unexplained neurological symptoms.

What Affects It

Factors influencing mercury levels include occupational exposure (dental work, mining, industrial processes), dietary intake of contaminated fish and seafood, dental amalgam fillings, environmental contamination from coal burning and industrial waste, and geographic location. Age, kidney function, and genetic variations in mercury metabolism can also affect blood and urine mercury concentrations. Certain medications, supplements, and traditional remedies may contain mercury and elevate levels.

How to Improve

For high mercury levels, avoiding fish high in mercury (shark, swordfish, king mackerel, tilefish), eliminating dental amalgam fillings, and reducing exposure to contaminated water sources are essential. Supporting natural detoxification through adequate hydration, consuming selenium-rich foods, and considering chelation therapy under medical supervision can help. For low mercury levels, which are generally desirable, maintaining minimal exposure through careful seafood selection and avoiding environmental sources is recommended. Regular monitoring ensures mercury levels remain within safe ranges, particularly for pregnant women and children who are more vulnerable to mercury toxicity.

Common Name: Mercury