Mercury is a naturally occurring element with significant health hazards. Direct contact can lead to various forms of exposure, making understanding its risks important.
Understanding Mercury’s Toxicity
Mercury exists in several forms, each with distinct toxicological profiles and absorption pathways. Elemental mercury, the shiny liquid in old thermometers, vaporizes readily at room temperature. Inhaling these vapors is a primary concern, as it quickly enters the bloodstream and distributes throughout the body, including the brain. While direct skin absorption is slow on intact skin, prolonged contact or contact with cuts increases absorption.
Inorganic mercury compounds, found in some older disinfectants, are absorbed through ingestion, affecting the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. These forms do not easily cross the blood-brain barrier. Organic mercury compounds, like methylmercury in certain fish, are highly toxic and readily absorbed through the digestive system, accumulating in the neurological system and other tissues. Organic mercury can also be absorbed through the skin, though inhalation is a more effective absorption route. All forms of mercury can accumulate in the body over time, leading to long-term health consequences.
Signs of Exposure
Mercury exposure symptoms vary based on the form, level, and duration of exposure. Acute exposure to high levels of elemental mercury vapor can cause immediate pulmonary symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, and a burning sensation in the lungs. Other signs include fever, chills, a metallic taste, and gastrointestinal issues. Higher acute exposures can also damage kidneys and impact the heart, leading to increased heart rate or blood pressure.
Chronic, low-level mercury exposure often results in neurological and psychological effects. Symptoms include tremors, memory problems, coordination difficulties, and personality changes like irritability or nervousness. Individuals may also experience sleep disturbances, headaches, or numbness and tingling in extremities. Severe chronic exposure can lead to kidney failure, vision and hearing impairment, or dementia. Children are particularly vulnerable, as mercury can affect their developing nervous systems.
Responding to Contact and Spills
Immediate action is necessary if mercury is touched or spilled. If elemental mercury contacts the skin, wash the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing and shoes carefully, placing them into sealed plastic bags.
For any mercury spill, ventilate the area by opening windows and doors, and if possible, lower the room temperature to reduce vaporization. Never use a vacuum cleaner, broom, or mop, as these tools can break mercury into smaller droplets and increase toxic vapor release. Instead, use stiff paper or cardboard to gently push beads together, then an eyedropper or sticky tape to collect them.
Place all collected mercury and contaminated cleanup materials, including gloves and paper towels, into sealed plastic bags. These bags should then be placed into a second sealed bag and labeled “mercury waste.” Do not dispose of mercury or contaminated items in regular trash or down drains, as this is unsafe and illegal. Instead, contact local health departments or hazardous waste programs for disposal guidance. For spills larger than a typical thermometer’s amount (about 3 grams or a green pea), or if unsure, contact professional cleanup services.