Mercury is either elemental/metallic, inorganic or organic. It exists in water, soil and in the air. The elemental or metallic form is a silvery liquid used in thermometers, lightbulbs, batteries and electrical switches. This type of mercury can be released into the air when products that contain it break. Inorganic mercury is found in disinfectants, fungicides and creams that help to lighten the skin. Organic mercury is found in the environment, where it can be ingested by animals. It can also be released into the air when coal is burned. Exposure to high levels of any kind of mercury can cause various health problems.
Learning Disabilities
Elemental mercury that exists in the air can enter the water and turn into methylmercury. Fish that feed in these waters can accumulate methylmercury in their systems. Eating contaminated fish is the primary way that exposure to mercury occurs. Occasional fish consumption does not usually cause exposure to dangerous levels, as most types of fish only have trace amounts. However if contaminated fish is eaten during pregnancy, it can enter the bloodstream of an unborn baby and cause learning disabilities, claims the Environmental Protection Agency. Young children who eat contaminated fish are also at risk. Shark, swordfish, king mackerel and tilefish tend to be high in mercury. Shrimp, canned light tuna, salmon, pollock and catfish are safer choices. The EPA suggests consuming no more then 6 oz. of fish per week to be safe. It is best to stick with locally caught fish where the environmental conditions of the water are known.
Stomach Pain and Muscle Weakness
Overexposure to metallic mercury is rare, and the symptoms experienced depend on the amount of mercury exposure that occurs. The State of New Jersey warns that inhaling metallic mercury over a period of time can cause stomach pains and cramps, vomiting and diarrhea that may contain blood, swollen and bleeding gums, anemia, generalized edema or swelling, irregular heart rhythms, inability to coordinate muscular movements and weakness. It can also cause coughing, chest pain, mood changes, confusion, memory loss and difficulty concentrating.
Organ Damage
Exposure to high levels of any kind of mercury can damage various organs, including the heart, which can lead to a heart attack. The National Institutes of Health warns that swallowing inorganic mercury can cause burning sensations in the throat and stomach, which may or may not be accompanied by bloody diarrhea and vomiting. In high doses, it can lead to brain damage, kidney failure and death.
Organic mercury that is breathed in or comes into contact with the skin can cause tremors, generalized numbness, trouble walking, difficulties with memory, blindness, seizures, coma and death.
