5 Objects that cause mercury poisoning, and how to treat them

Mercury or what is known as mercury is a heavy metal that is very toxic and dangerous to health and the environment. This is because mercury is indestructible, toxic (poisonous), causes abnormal bodily functions, and can travel long distances in the atmosphere.

Mercury can cause problems for humans depending on the amount, mode of contamination (whether by mouth, skin contact, or inhalation), and duration of exposure. If humans are exposed to mercury continuously, this is known as mercury poisoning.

Where do we get mercury poisoning from?

There are many items containing mercury in various forms that can cause exposure to toxins that are harmful to health. They are present in many workplaces and at home.

1. Cosmetics

Some skin whitening products in the form of soaps and creams contain mercury. Other cosmetic products that contain mercury are eye makeup removers and mascara.

2. Medicines

Mercury is used in medicine, usually in very small amounts as a preservative or antibacterial agent. Mercury is often found in antibiotics, blood pressure cuffs, contact lenses, dental amalgams, ear and eye drops, eye ointments, hemorrhoid ointments, red medicines, nebulizers, and thermometers.

3. Seafood

Almost all seafood or seafood is susceptible to mercury exposure, for example shellfish and certain types of fish (tuna, marlin, shark, mackerel, swordfish and many others). Large fish tend to contain more methyl-mercury than small fish. This is because these fish have a longer time to accumulate mercury.

4. Electronic objects

Some electronic objects and solid objects commonly found in everyday life actually contain mercury. Such as batteries, neon lights, antiques, motorbike or car parts, LCD TV screens and laptops, and many others.

5. Air

Mercury can also be inhaled by humans. This occurs when materials containing mercury undergo a separation process, which usually occurs in the industrial world. For example, smoke from coal-fired power plants emits mercury, which is the highest source of mercury in the air.

What are the health hazards of mercury poisoning?

A new review in the journal Current Opinions in Pediatrics, suggests that impulsive behavior and cognitive problems associated with lead exposure can be affected by mercury poisoning.

In addition, if the body is exposed to the element mercury for a long time, it can cause tremors, muscle weakness, headaches, insomnia, shortness of breath, kidney damage, and even death.

How to treat mercury poisoning?

There are several ways you can treat mercury poisoning, namely:

1. Heavy metal detoxification

To help your body get rid of mercury, you can detoxify heavy metals by increasing your intake of vitamin C foods, green leafy vegetables, and coriander. Coriander is one of the best herb choices for a heavy metal detox.

2. Chelation therapy

Chelation therapy is another method to treat poisoning with heavy metals such as mercury. Chelation therapy involves a chemical solution called EDTA, which is administered into the body - usually directly injected into the bloodstream so it can bind to excess minerals.

3. Milk thistle

An herb called milk thistle has been shown to be effective in supporting the detoxification of the body from heavy metals. The active ingredient in it is called silymarin, which has a tremendous cleansing effect on the liver and gallbladder. So that it helps your body heal more effectively from mercury poisoning.

6. Take probiotics

According to research, a species of good bacteria known as Lactobacillus, which can be found in the human mouth, intestines and fermented foods, has the ability to bind and detoxify some heavy metals. You can eat yogurt, kefir, and vegetables like kimchi. By consuming probiotic drinks regularly, you can improve intestinal health and help treat the body from mercury poisoning.