Have You Been Exposed To Heavy Metals?

Heavy Metal

Due to natural disasters and other recent catastrophes, we at LabSafe have had numerous inquires regarding heavy metal and other toxin exposures.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitors the environment for health hazards and public safety. Heavy Metals include mercury, lead, arsenic and chromium to name a few. We are exposed to these toxins daily, and in low levels these toxins cause no problems. However, the EPA has issued warnings for Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas due to high levels of some of these toxins.

Some of the harmful effects of mercury are cancer, damage to the stomach and large intestines, permanent damage to the brain and kidneys, permanent harm to unborn children, lung damage, and increased blood pressure and heart rate.

Chromium exposure through the inhalation of insoluble chromium compounds may produce pneumoconiosis with impairment of pulmonary function. Exposure to the inorganic soluble salts can precipitate skin ulcerations, dermatitis, perforation of the nasal septum, and respiratory sensitization. Acute exposure to these salts may result in local tissue necrosis and kidney damage.

Symptoms of high levels of arsenic exposure include headache, feeling tired, confusion, hallucination, vomiting, diarrhea, digestive system bleeding seizures, and coma.

Symptoms of high lead exposure include fatigue, depression, heart failure, abdominal pain, gout, kidney failure, high blood pressure, wrist or foot weakness, reproductive problems, and anemia.

A heavy metal test panel, offered by LabSafe, can monitor exposure and detect if your levels are higher than the acceptable limits. Call LabSafe toll free at 1-888-333-LABS or visit us online at www.LabSafe.com (click on the category Testing For Toxins or simply follow this link: http://www.labsafe.com/lab-tests/test/483/ ) for more information. As with all tests the results should be reviewed with your Physician.