Poisoning by drinking mercury or mercury compounds or by inhaling mercury vapour.
Toxic condition caused by the ingestion or inhalation of mercury or mercury-containing products (e.g., fungicides and certain pigments); contamination of waters with industrial wastes containing mercury has led to contaminated fish and seafood in some areas. Acute poisoning causes a metallic taste in the mouth, gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea), and kidney disturbances that may lead to death. Chronic poisoning, resulting from exposure to small amounts of mercury over a long period, causes irritability, slurred speech, staggering gait, and teeth and gum disorders. Treatment includes gastric lavage.
The acute or chronic consequences of the ingestion or inhalation of mercury. These include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, renal failure, gingivitis, behavioral and cognitive deficits, seizures, paralysis, pneumonitis, and/or death.
Inhaling vapors from liquid mercury, often due to industrial exposure, is the primary source of mercury poisoning. Additionally, mercury compounds can be ingested, leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort, or absorbed through the skin, resulting in significant inflammation.
Once inside the body, mercury primarily builds up in the brain and kidneys. In the brain, mercury can lead to symptoms like fatigue, lack of coordination, heightened excitability, tremors, and limb numbness. In extreme situations, vision issues and dementia may arise. Mercury accumulation in the kidneys can result in kidney failure.
To treat mercury poisoning, chelating agents might be used to accelerate the body’s mercury elimination. Hemodialysis can also be employed. If mercury was ingested recently, inducing vomiting or stomach pumping might be necessary.