Methylmercury is a poisonous organic compound that is formed when mercury is broken down by microorganisms, according to the New York Times Health Guide. It has been found in varying amounts of concentration in fish. The highest concentrations of methylmercury in edible fish have been found in tilefish, swordfish, and mackerel at 3.73, 3.22, and 1.67 parts per million respectively, explains the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Methylmercury can have detrimental effects when ingested.
Cerebral Palsy
Methylmercury can cause cerebral palsy in babies exposed to it during pregnancy, according to MedlinePlus. The severity of cerebral palsy depends on the degree of exposure. This is because methylmercury damages the brain and spinal cord.
Loss of Hearing
Exposure to methylmercury can cause loss of hearing, notes the The New York Times Health Guide. The extent of the hearing loss depends on the degree of exposure to methylmercury. Damage to the sense of hearing cannot be reversed at this time, however taking out the source of methylmercury exposure can prevent further loss of hearing, explains MedlinePlus.
Loss of Vision
Methylmercury poisoning may cause loss of vision, according to MedlinePlus. The exact scope of vision loss is determined by the extent of methylmercury exposure. Partial and total vision loss cannot be reversed; however, removing the source of methylmercury exposure can prevent further vision loss.
Impaired Growth and Development
This form of mercury poisoning has a detrimental effect on the growth and development of babies and unborn children, notes the New York Times Health Guide. The extent to which growth and development are impaired depends on the level of exposure to methylmercury. The poison could impair the normal growth of the head, a condition known as microcephaly, explains MedlinePlus. Removing the source of exposure can prevent further damage.
Impaired Coordination and Muscle Control
Methylmercury poisoning can also negatively impact coordination and muscle control similar to cerebral palsy, notes MedlinePlus. The severity of the damage can vary depending on the degree of exposure, and is usually irreversible. Further damage can be prevented if exposure to methylmercury is ended, however.
Intellectual and Cognitive Disability
Exposure to methylmercury can have extremely detrimental effects on the intellectual and cognitive faculties of infants and the unborn, notes the New York Times Health Guide. The extent of the damage to intellectual and cognitive function depends on the degree of exposure to methylmercury. Although the damage is irreparable, further damage can be prevented by removing the source of methylmercury exposure, explains MedlinePlus.
