Mercury is a dangerous environmental metal that, when absorbed into the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, can lead to mercury poisoning. The symptoms vary depending on the form of mercury, how much a person is exposed to, and for how long.

Common Signs of Mercury Exposure

Typical symptoms of mercury poisoning include:

  • Headache

  • Metallic taste

  • Shortness of breath

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Visual disturbances

Some individuals may also experience fever, coughing, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and excessive saliva. The presentation depends largely on the specific type of mercury encountered.

Types of Mercury and Their Symptoms

There are three primary forms of mercury: organic, inorganic, and elemental. Each has its own health effects and symptom profile.

Organic Mercury Exposure

Organic mercury (often in the form of methylmercury) is commonly found in contaminated seafood, industrial pollution, and outdated antiseptic products. Long-term exposure, even in small amounts, can lead to a buildup in the body.

Symptoms can include:

  • Tremors or shakiness

  • Numbness or tingling in the skin

  • Difficulty walking

  • Double vision or blindness

  • Seizures (in severe cases)

  • Memory issues

Inorganic Mercury Exposure

Inorganic mercury is present in items such as old batteries, some disinfectants, and laboratory chemicals. It’s toxic when ingested.

Exposure can lead to:

  • Burning in the mouth and stomach

  • Vomiting (often with blood)

  • Severe diarrhea

  • Kidney and brain damage

  • Dehydration and, in extreme cases, death

Elemental Mercury Exposure

Found in items like thermometers, fluorescent bulbs, and some dental amalgams, elemental mercury poses a risk mostly when inhaled as vapor.

Inhaling elemental mercury over time or in large amounts may cause:

  • Metallic taste

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Swollen gums

  • Persistent cough

  • Vomiting

  • Long-term lung or brain damage

Impact on Infants and Pregnant Individuals

Pregnant individuals who consume high-mercury seafood can pass methylmercury to their unborn children, potentially harming brain development.

Effects in infants and fetuses may include:

  • Cognitive impairment

  • Memory and attention issues

  • Delayed motor development

  • Language and spatial awareness difficulties

To minimize risks, it's advised to limit consumption of high-mercury fish such as swordfish, king mackerel, and some types of tuna during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Chronic Mercury Poisoning Symptoms

Long-term mercury exposure may be mistaken for other chronic illnesses such as autoimmune or gastrointestinal conditions.

Symptoms may include:

  • Skin rashes

  • Digestive issues similar to IBD

  • Ongoing nausea and vomiting

  • Bleeding or swollen gums

  • Metallic taste

  • Breathing issues

When to Seek Medical Help

You should seek immediate medical attention if you:

  • Inhale mercury vapors

  • Accidentally ingest mercury

  • Experience mercury-related symptoms such as nausea, cough, or blurred vision

For urgent concerns, visit the emergency room or contact the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 in the United States.

Important Questions to Discuss With a Doctor

If you’re concerned about possible mercury exposure, consider asking your healthcare provider:

  • Could mercury be causing my symptoms?

  • Are there tests to detect mercury in my system?

  • What treatment options are available?

  • How can I reduce future exposure?

Summary

Mercury poisoning is a serious health issue that can result from short-term or prolonged exposure to different types of mercury. Symptoms can affect the nervous, digestive, respiratory, and renal systems, and may present gradually or suddenly.

If you suspect mercury toxicity, it's essential to get evaluated by a medical professional. Early diagnosis and intervention can help prevent lasting damage.