Elevated Mercury Levels in Blood: Causes and Solutions

Heavy metals in the blood

Recently, our company conducted a health examination, and my test report indicated that the mercury level in my blood exceeds the standard.
However, there are no hazardous factors present in the work environment.
Among the 50 individuals examined, over 30 showed elevated levels.
I took traditional Chinese medicine for about two months a month ago; could this be the reason? I am very concerned about potential long-term effects and would like to know how to improve my condition to lower the mercury levels.

Guo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/04/26

Dr. Tang Jieru reply Internal Medicine

In Taiwan, mercury poisoning is commonly caused by the use of traditional Chinese medicine such as cinnabar (HgS), calomel (HgCl2), and Ba Bao San.
The laboratory diagnostic criteria are: blood mercury levels exceeding 10 mg/dL, or 24-hour urinary mercury levels exceeding 0.05 mg/g creatinine.
Symptoms often require exposure for more than a year and may include personality changes (such as extreme irritability, bad temper, flat affect, and insomnia), swelling of the extremities, which may appear pink, moist, and cold, along with spasms and peeling skin.
Additional symptoms may include sweating, itchy skin, increased glandular activity, and rashes on the trunk.
Furthermore, loss of appetite, weight loss, increased heart rate, constipation, hypertension, and muscle weakness may also occur.
In some cases, chronic mercury poisoning in adults may present with tremors, unsteady gait, chorea, myoclonus, gingivitis, tooth loss, and glucose metabolism abnormalities.
Elemental mercury distributes quickly in the body and can easily cross the blood-brain barrier, leading to neurological damage; it can also cross the placenta, causing developmental issues in the fetus.
Mercury testing is not typically part of routine health examinations, so it is unclear why your company conducted these tests.
Among 50 individuals, over 30 showed elevated levels, indicating a need to investigate whether there are substances in the environment with high mercury content.
The primary treatment involves identifying potential sources and avoiding further exposure; if symptoms are already present, it is advisable to seek medical treatment at a hospital.
You may refer to the following webpage for more detailed information in Chinese: http://www.pcc.vghtpe.gov.tw/docms/60209.htm.

Reply Date: 2002/04/26

More Info

Elevated mercury levels in the blood can be a concerning finding, especially when they exceed standard limits. Mercury is a toxic heavy metal that can have serious health implications, particularly affecting the nervous system, kidneys, and immune system. Understanding the potential causes of elevated mercury levels and how to address them is crucial for your health.

Possible Causes of Elevated Mercury Levels
1. Dietary Sources: One of the most common sources of mercury exposure is through the consumption of certain types of fish and seafood, particularly larger predatory fish like shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish, which tend to accumulate higher levels of mercury in their tissues.

2. Environmental Exposure: While you mentioned that your work environment does not contain mercury hazards, it is still possible to be exposed to mercury through other means, such as contaminated water sources or air pollution.
3. Traditional Medicine: You noted that you had been taking traditional Chinese medicine for about two months. Some herbal remedies may contain mercury or other heavy metals as contaminants. It is essential to ensure that any herbal products you use are sourced from reputable suppliers and tested for heavy metal contamination.

4. Dental Amalgams: If you have dental fillings made from amalgam, these can release small amounts of mercury over time. However, the amount is generally considered safe for most individuals.

5. Occupational Exposure: While you mentioned that your workplace does not have mercury hazards, it’s worth considering any previous jobs or activities that may have involved mercury exposure, such as working in laboratories, manufacturing, or certain types of construction.

Health Implications
Elevated mercury levels can lead to a variety of health issues, including:
- Neurological Effects: Symptoms can include tremors, memory problems, mood swings, and cognitive deficits.

- Kidney Damage: Mercury can affect kidney function, leading to potential renal impairment.

- Immune System Effects: Chronic exposure can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.

Steps to Reduce Mercury Levels
1. Dietary Changes: If you consume fish, consider reducing your intake of high-mercury fish and opting for lower-mercury options such as salmon, sardines, and trout. The FDA provides guidelines on safe fish consumption.

2. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help your body flush out toxins, including heavy metals. Staying well-hydrated supports kidney function, which is crucial for detoxification.

3. Consult a Healthcare Professional: It’s essential to discuss your elevated mercury levels with a healthcare provider. They may recommend further testing to determine the extent of the exposure and any necessary treatments.

4. Chelation Therapy: In cases of significantly elevated mercury levels, chelation therapy may be considered. This involves the administration of chelating agents that bind to heavy metals and facilitate their excretion from the body. However, this should only be done under medical supervision, as it can have side effects and is not appropriate for everyone.

5. Avoiding Further Exposure: Be mindful of any products you use that may contain mercury, including certain skin creams, and ensure that any traditional medicines are free from heavy metals.

6. Regular Monitoring: If you have been found to have elevated mercury levels, regular follow-up blood tests may be necessary to monitor your levels and assess the effectiveness of any interventions.

Conclusion
Elevated mercury levels in the blood can arise from various sources, including dietary habits and potential contaminants in herbal medicines. It is crucial to identify the source of exposure and take appropriate steps to mitigate it. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential for personalized advice and treatment options. Regular monitoring and lifestyle adjustments can significantly help in reducing mercury levels and minimizing potential health risks.

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