Mercury poisoning (also known as hydrargyria or mercurialism) is a disease caused by exposure to mercury or its compounds. Mercury (chemical symbol Hg) is a heavy metal that occurs in several forms, all of which can produce toxic effects in high enough doses. Its zero oxidation state Hg0 exists as vapor or as liquid metal, its mercurous state Hg+ exists as inorganic salts, and its mercuric state Hg2+ may form either inorganic salts or organ mercury compounds; the three groups vary in effects. Toxic effects include damage to the brain, kidney, and lungs. Mercury poisoning can result in several diseases, including acrodynia (pink disease), Hunter-Russell syndrome, and Minamata disease.[2] |
Symptoms typically include sensory impairment (vision, hearing, speech), disturbed sensation and a lack of coordination. The type and degree of symptoms exhibited depend upon the individual toxin, the dose, and the method and duration of exposure. |
The problems concerning mercury poisoning cases have become so extreme that the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning page on its website for consumers. Along with the EPA the FDA advises that any pregnant woman, woman likely to get pregnant, nursing mother or young child should avoid eating foods that contain high levels of mercury. These foods include shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish, all of which contain very high levels of mercury. Other commonly eaten food like tuna, salmon, catfish and shrimp contain lower amounts in general but are still on the caution list for people who can be potentially harmed. |
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