How does mercury pollution affect human health?

How does mercury pollution affect human health?

Elemental (Metallic) Mercury Metallic mercury mainly causes health effects when inhaled as a vapor where it can be absorbed through the lungs. Symptoms of prolonged and/or acute exposures include: Tremors; Emotional changes (such as mood swings, irritability, nervousness, excessive shyness);

What kind of mercury is dangerous?

A highly toxic form (methylmercury) builds up in fish, shellfish and animals that eat fish. Fish and shellfish are the main sources of methylmercury exposure to humans. Fish that typically have higher levels of mercury include king mackerel, marlin, orange roughy, shark, swordfish, tilefish, and ahi and bigeye tuna.

Is it illegal to own mercury?

Effective January 1, 2003, the California Mercury Reduction Act banned the sale of many products containing mercury. Effective January 1, 2003, the California Mercury Reduction Act banned sale of mercury-added novelties in this state, but some people still have them in their homes.

How is Mercury harmful to the human body?

1 Mercury causes damage to the brain, kidneys, and other organs 2 Mercury is linked to autism, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, developmental delays, impaired vision, emotional and behavioral problems, and other wellness issues 3 Mercury crosses the placenta and is also passed into breast milk

What kind of poisoning is caused by Mercury?

Mercury poisoning is a type of metal poisoning due to exposure to mercury. Symptoms depend upon the type, dose, method, and duration of exposure.

What are the dangers of mercury fillings in your body?

The Dangers of Mercury. Multiple fillings can leak enough mercury into a person’s system to cause mercury poisoning While in the average adult one or two fillings will not cause harm, having multiple fillings can leak enough mercury into a person’s system to cause mercury poisoning. For women, there are special health concerns.

What are the dangers of mercury in milk?

Mercury crosses the placenta, and also passes into breast milk. And even trace amounts can cause birth defects. Mercury has been linked to regressive autism, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, developmental delays, and a variety of physical, cognitive, and behavioral problems.