One does not think much about using mercury thermometers. If a member of the family falls sick, we quickly take out mercury thermometer and measure the temperature. Similarly, dental filling is a routine process for most of us. It never occurs to us that dental filling or thermometers can cause toxicity. But it is a fact. Breaking of mercury thermometer spills mercury beads that are difficult to collect. Dental amalgam contains mercury which may accumulate and cause chronic toxicity. Preservatives such as thiomerosal, used in children’s vaccines, may lead to mercury toxicity. Even fish such as albacore tuna, swordfish and king mackerel may cause mercury toxicity. Mercury is a heavy metal that is liquid at room temperature. Spilled mercury beads may vapourize and can possibly be inhaled. Inhaled mercury is highly toxic. It may cause typical metal fume fever. Similarly, eating particular kinds of fish may cause ingestion of methylmercury- an organic form- which may significantly damage the nervous system. Children are especially prone to mercury toxicity. Children born to mothers with high level of mercury show slower development. This book explains how mercury contamination occurs; what are the symptoms of mercury contamination and how contamination can be avoided. It also has a look at some of the ways to reduce the toxic effects of mercury contamination.
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