How is chronic mercury poisoning treated?
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, treatment for chronic mercury poisoning mainly includes removing exposure to mercury, chelation therapy with mercury-removing agents, symptomatic and supportive treatment, nutritional regulation and adjunctive therapy, and TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment. In addition, patients should follow medical advice for standardized treatment and undergo regular monitoring of urinary mercury levels. Workers should take proper protective measures and have regular health check-ups; if symptoms such as fatigue, gum swelling, or pain occur, they should seek medical attention promptly.
Under normal circumstances, the main treatment methods for chronic mercury poisoning include removing exposure to mercury, chelation therapy, symptomatic and supportive treatment, nutritional support, and TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment. The details are as follows:
1. Remove Mercury Exposure
Immediately stop contact with mercury-containing environments and items, such as mercury thermometers and low-quality cosmetics. Change work positions or improve the working environment. Preventing further mercury intake is essential to avoid worsening bodily damage and to create favorable conditions for the body's natural elimination of mercury. This is the primary step in treatment.
2. Chelation Therapy
Chelating agents bind with mercury in the body to form compounds that are easily excreted, making this a core treatment method. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as sodium dimercaptosuccinate injection, sodium dimercaptopropanesulfonate injection, or penicillamine tablets to promote mercury excretion.
3. Symptomatic and Supportive Treatment
Treatment targets symptoms affecting the nervous, digestive, and other systems. For headaches and insomnia, estazolam tablets may be used. For stomatitis, oral rinsing with compound chlorhexidine mouthwash is recommended. If liver injury occurs, silymarin capsules can be used to protect liver cells and relieve discomfort.
4. Nutritional Support
Supplement proteins, vitamin B complex, calcium, zinc, and other nutrients. Increase intake of eggs, lean meat, and fresh fruits and vegetables. Proper nutrition enhances metabolic capacity, reduces mercury-induced organ damage, and supports recovery.
5. TCM Syndrome Differentiation and Treatment
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) considers chronic mercury poisoning primarily due to internal accumulation of damp-toxicity and deficiency of the liver and kidneys. Treatment focuses on detoxification, eliminating dampness, and nourishing the liver and kidneys. Under medical guidance, patients may use herbal formulas such as Qiju Dihuang Pills or Shenling Baizhu Powder. Acupuncture at points like Taichong (LV3) and Zusanli (ST36) can help regulate organ functions.
In addition, patients should follow medical advice for standardized treatment and undergo regular monitoring of urinary mercury levels. Workers exposed to mercury should take proper protective measures and have routine health checkups. If symptoms such as fatigue or gum swelling and pain occur, prompt medical evaluation is necessary to avoid delayed diagnosis and treatment.
