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Contents of this page: | |
Definition
Poisoning from an overdose of mercury.Poisonous Ingredient
Mercury
Where Found
Note: This list may not be all inclusive.
Symptoms
Home Treatment
Elemental mercury, like the type found in glass thermometers, is a liquid at room temperature. It is possible to inhale or ingest vapors from liquid mercury. In most forms mercury can be highly toxic, and you should avoid ingesting, inhaling, or touching mercury.
Wash exposed skin with soap and water. In the case of exposure, call Poison Control for guidance. Proper cleanup of mercury is essential to prevent further exposure.
If instructed to induce vomiting (emesis), proceed as follows or as otherwise instructed:
Before Calling Emergency
Determine the following:
Poison Control, or a local emergency number
The Poison Control or local emergency telephone representative will instruct you if it is necessary to take the patient to the hospital. See Poison Control centers for telephone numbers and addresses.
Take the container with you to the emergency room.
What to expect at the emergency room
Some or all of the following procedures may be performed:
Expectations (prognosis)
Severity of symptoms and long-term effects are dependent on the amount of exposure and the time to treatment. It is important to be evaluated by a physician for any suspected mercury exposure. Mercury causes neurologic effects, including irritability, developmental delay, or psychosis.
With some forms or mercury, such as mercuric chloride, deaths have occurred. Any closure of the throat or extreme difficulty breathing is an emergency situation.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |