What are the symptoms of mercury poisoning?

Merccury poisoning, also known as mercury toxicity, may present the following major symptoms:

1. Neurological symptoms: Mercury significantly affects the central nervous system, leading to headache, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, anxiety, depression, tremors, and ataxia.

2. Digestive system symptoms: These include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, sometimes accompanied by oral mucosal damage, gum bleeding, and a metallic taste.

3. Kidney damage: Prolonged or excessive exposure to mercury can cause kidney dysfunction, manifested as proteinuria, hematuria, edema, and hypertension.

4. Respiratory system symptoms: Inhalation of high concentrations of mercury vapor can irritate the respiratory tract, causing coughing, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

5. Skin and mucous membrane reactions: Direct contact with mercury may result in skin redness, rashes, peeling, and ulcers; contact with the eyes can lead to conjunctivitis.

Therefore, if the above symptoms occur, prompt medical attention is necessary. Preventing mercury poisoning primarily involves avoiding exposure to mercury sources, such as using mercury-free thermometers and avoiding consumption of mercury-contaminated food.