Can Rest Alone Treat Suspected Acute Mercury Poisoning?

Can resting resolve suspected acute mercury poisoning?

Hello, doctor: Seven days ago, I broke a mercury thermometer before going to bed (I have been taking my temperature daily due to the pandemic).
I started feeling dizzy and nauseous while cleaning it, and after sleeping, I still felt the same the next day, along with diarrhea (once).
On the third day, I continued to experience dizziness and diarrhea (once).
On the fourth day, I had dizziness, diarrhea (once), and some pain in certain areas of both palms.
The fifth and sixth days were similar to the fourth day (but I no longer had diarrhea).
Today is the seventh day, and I still feel a bit dizzy, but not as severe as on the first and second days.
I suspect acute mercury poisoning, as the symptoms began at that time, but I'm not sure.
I would like to know what kind of treatment a doctor would provide if I go for a consultation.
Would the doctor prescribe anti-dizziness medication and recommend rest, or would there be other treatments?

Huang, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/23

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, generally speaking, direct skin contact with liquid mercury is not highly toxic.
If mercury poisoning is suspected, its blood concentration can be monitored.
The symptoms mentioned in the text require further evaluation.
Please note: online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatments.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2021/06/23

More Info

Acute mercury poisoning is a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention. If you suspect that you have been exposed to mercury, especially after breaking a thermometer, it is crucial to seek medical help rather than relying solely on rest. Mercury can have toxic effects on various systems in the body, and the symptoms you are experiencing—such as dizziness, nausea, and gastrointestinal issues—are concerning and could indicate mercury exposure.

When you visit a healthcare provider, they will likely conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination and a detailed history of your exposure. They might also order laboratory tests to measure the levels of mercury in your blood or urine. This is important because the severity of mercury poisoning can vary significantly based on the amount and duration of exposure.

Treatment for mercury poisoning typically involves several approaches:
1. Supportive Care: This includes managing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Medications may be prescribed to alleviate these symptoms. For instance, antiemetics can help with nausea, and hydration may be necessary if you are experiencing gastrointestinal distress.

2. Chelation Therapy: If mercury levels are found to be significantly elevated, chelation therapy may be indicated. This involves administering chelating agents, which are substances that bind to mercury in the bloodstream and help remove it from the body through urine. Common chelating agents include dimercaprol (British Anti-Lewisite) and DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid). However, chelation therapy is typically reserved for cases of confirmed poisoning and is not without risks, so it should only be conducted under medical supervision.

3. Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of your symptoms and mercury levels may be necessary to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and to make adjustments as needed.

4. Preventive Measures: If mercury exposure is confirmed, your healthcare provider will also discuss preventive measures to avoid future exposure. This may include guidance on safely handling mercury-containing products and what to do in case of accidental exposure.

It is essential to understand that while rest is important for recovery from many illnesses, it is not a substitute for medical treatment in cases of suspected poisoning. The symptoms you are experiencing could worsen if left untreated, and there may be long-term health implications associated with mercury exposure.

In summary, if you suspect acute mercury poisoning, it is imperative to seek medical attention promptly. The healthcare provider will determine the appropriate course of action based on your symptoms and test results. Do not delay in seeking help, as timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications associated with mercury toxicity.

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