Mercury Consultation
Mercury is a potent neurotoxin that causes serious health problems, including nervous system damage, tremors, memory loss, and kidney failure.
It exists mainly as methylmercury (in fish) and elemental mercury (vapors), with high-level exposure impacting the brain, lungs, kidneys, liver, and immune system.
Developing fetuses and young children are most at risk. In children, exposure can lead to lasting, long-term developmental delays in cognitive, motor, and language skills. Methylmercury readily passes into the fetus, damaging the developing brain and nervous system.
Methylmercury exposure is mostly consumed through fish and shellfish, particularly large, predatory fish.
Elemental Mercury exposure is mostly inhaled when products like thermometers, thermostats, or fluorescent light bulbs break.
The most common cause of mercury exposure is eating fish/shellfish contaminated with methylmercury. Other sources include broken thermometers, dental amalgams, and some traditional medicines.
Normal blood mercury levels for the general population are typically below 5ng/mL, with many healthy adults testing below 1-2 ng/mL. Levels for children and women of childbearing age are generally expected to be lower, often under 1 ng/mL.
Normal urine mercury levels are normally considered below 20 ng/mL.
Depending the type of exposure that you have had to mercury whether through consuming fish (methylmercury) or through vapors (elemental) will determine whether you have blood work or a urine test for mercury toxicity workup.
Methylmercury (such as through the consumption of fish) is best detected through blood work.
Elemental mercury (such as through vapors and other types of occupational exposure) is best detected through a urine sample.
If, unusually, you are worried about both methods, both can be done for an additional $25. You will be emailed an intake form after you book this appointment to fill out questions regarding possible mercury exposure.
For most people, if the mercury level is somewhat elevated, reducing consumption of high-mercury fish (such as swordfish, shark, and king mackerel) and avoiding handling elemental mercury are the best ways to reduce risk.
If levels are very elevated, more than 50 ng/mL (blood) or more than 100 ng/mL, this usually requires chelation therapy.
Significant mercury poisoning in the US is rare but if you feel like you've had significant exposure through high-mercury seafood or industrial exposure, it's worth the peace of mind to take the test and know for sure where you stand.
During the visit, results will be discussed and guidance will be given to you by the provider.
Appointment Duration: 20 minutes
Price: $60