Mercury

What is Mercury?
Mercury is a transition metal that occurs naturally throughout the world. It is often referred to as quicksilver because of its silver, liquid appearance. Mercury comes in two forms, its insoluble form is harmless to humans however, its soluble ,such as mercuric chloride, is very poisonous

How am I exposed to mercury?
- Ingestion
- Inhalation
- Skin contact

What are symptoms of mercury poisoning?
- Mercury poisoning can take up to 1 month to see effects
- Paresthesias
- Headaches
- Ataxia
- Visual field constriction
- Hearing impairment

Reults of mercury poisoning:
- Mercury causes damage to the central nervous system and should be treated by a doctor immediately·

How much is too much?
- Mercury blood levels greater than 10µg/L.
- Can only be detected by commercial laboratory.
- Urine analysis is not an effective means of testing for mercury poisoning.

How do I come into contact with mercury?
- Seafood
- Alkali and metal processing
- Incineration of coal
- Thermometers
- Fluorescent light bulbs
- Dental amalgam fillings

Treatment for mercury poisoning:
- See physician as soon as possible
- Chelation (Detoxamin)

More Info on protection and disposal of mercury
- http://www.calpoison.org/public/mercury.html
- http://www.cdc.gov/