Diagnosis Mercury

Diagnosis Mercury is a term used to refer to the process of identifying mercury poisoning in an individual. Mercury is a heavy metal that is highly toxic to humans, and exposure can lead to a variety of health problems. The process of diagnosing mercury poisoning involves a combination of clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory testing.

Symptoms and Signs

The symptoms of mercury poisoning can vary depending on the type of mercury exposure. For example, exposure to elemental mercury (the kind found in old thermometers and fluorescent light bulbs) can lead to symptoms such as tremors, insomnia, memory loss, neuromuscular effects, headaches, and cognitive and motor dysfunction. Inorganic mercury poisoning can cause symptoms such as skin rashes, inflammation of the mouth and gums, increased heart rate, and high blood pressure. Organic mercury poisoning, such as that caused by consuming contaminated fish, can lead to symptoms such as peripheral vision impairment, "pins and needles" feelings, usually in the hands, feet, and around the mouth, lack of coordination of movements, impairment of speech, hearing, walking, and muscle weakness.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of mercury poisoning is based on the patient's clinical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. The clinical history may reveal exposure to a source of mercury, such as a broken thermometer, dental amalgam fillings, or consumption of contaminated fish. The physical examination may reveal signs of mercury poisoning, such as tremors or changes in reflexes.

Laboratory tests can confirm the diagnosis. These tests measure the levels of mercury in the blood, urine, or hair. Blood tests are most useful for detecting recent exposure to mercury. Urine tests can help identify chronic exposure. Hair analysis can provide information about long-term exposure to mercury, but this test is less commonly used.

Treatment

Treatment for mercury poisoning involves removing the source of exposure and providing supportive care. In some cases, chelation therapy may be used. This involves giving the patient a medication that binds to the mercury and helps the body to eliminate it.

Prevention

Prevention of mercury poisoning involves avoiding exposure to mercury. This can be achieved by properly disposing of items that contain mercury, such as old thermometers and fluorescent light bulbs, and by limiting consumption of fish known to be high in mercury.