Hello, I'm Dr. Emily, a specialist in toxicology. I've been working in the field for over 15 years, focusing on the effects of heavy metals on the human body. Mercury is one of the most concerning heavy metals due to its widespread presence and potential for serious health effects.

Mercury is a naturally occurring element found in the environment. It can be released into the environment through natural processes such as volcanic eruptions and weathering of rocks, but it's also released through human activities such as burning fossil fuels, mining, and industrial processes.

Mercury exists in different forms, each with its own unique properties and effects on the human body:

* Elemental mercury (Hg): This is a liquid metal at room temperature. It's commonly found in thermometers, barometers, and some fluorescent lights. Elemental mercury is not easily absorbed into the body through the skin, but inhalation of mercury vapor can lead to serious health problems.
* Inorganic mercury: This form of mercury is found in some industrial products and can be released into the environment through mining and manufacturing processes. Inorganic mercury is not easily absorbed into the body through the skin, but ingestion can lead to severe poisoning.
* Organic mercury: This form of mercury is found in fish and other seafood. It's more readily absorbed into the body than inorganic mercury and can accumulate in the body over time.

The effects of mercury on the human body depend on the form of mercury, the amount of exposure, and the duration of exposure.

Here are some of the key effects of mercury on the human body:

Nervous system:

* Elemental mercury vapor can damage the central nervous system and cause a range of neurological symptoms such as **tremors, memory loss, mood changes, and difficulty speaking**.
* Methylmercury, the most common form of organic mercury, can cross the placenta and affect the developing brain of a fetus. This can lead to birth defects and developmental delays.
* High levels of mercury can cause permanent brain damage and even death.

Cardiovascular system:

* Mercury can interfere with the heart's electrical activity and can lead to heart rhythm problems.
* Long-term exposure to mercury can increase the risk of heart disease.

Immune system:

* Mercury can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.
* Mercury exposure can also trigger autoimmune disorders, where the body attacks its own tissues.

Other effects:

* Mercury can damage the kidneys and can lead to kidney failure.
* Mercury can also damage the lungs, causing lung inflammation and breathing problems.

Exposure to mercury can occur through:

* Breathing contaminated air: This can happen in workplaces where mercury is used or in areas where mercury has been released into the environment.
* Eating contaminated food: This is the most common source of mercury exposure for most people, particularly those who consume large amounts of fish and seafood.
* Drinking contaminated water: While less common, mercury can be present in drinking water if it's contaminated by industrial wastewater or runoff.
* Using mercury-containing products: This includes products like thermometers, fluorescent lights, and some dental fillings.

**Here are some steps you can take to reduce your exposure to mercury:**

* Choose fish carefully: Select low-mercury fish such as salmon, shrimp, and catfish. Avoid eating high-mercury fish like swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish more than once a month.
* Limit your exposure to mercury vapor: Avoid using mercury thermometers and fluorescent lights with mercury.
* Wash your hands thoroughly after handling mercury-containing products.
* **Dispose of mercury-containing products properly**: Do not throw them in the trash. Check with your local recycling center for information on proper disposal.
* Be aware of your surroundings: If you work in an industry where mercury is used, make sure you understand the risks and take precautions to protect yourself.

**If you think you may have been exposed to mercury, contact your doctor immediately.** They can assess your risk and recommend the appropriate course of action.

It's important to remember that mercury is a dangerous substance that can have serious health effects. By taking steps to reduce your exposure, you can protect yourself and your family from its harmful effects.
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Health effects of mercury exposure. Elemental and methylmercury are toxic to the central and peripheral nervous systems. The inhalation of mercury vapour can produce harmful effects on the nervous, digestive and immune systems, lungs and kidneys, and may be fatal.read more >>