Mercury is a neurotoxin that can lead to severe health effects for those exposed. Unfortunately, exposure to mercury is not uncommon for workers in the state of Texas. Various industries use mercury or devices and equipment that contain mercury. This includes but is not limited to, the medical and pharmaceutical industry, the automotive industry, and the mining industry. For additional resources and assistance, a Houston explosion accident attorney may be able to be of service.

What is Mercury Vapor?

Mercury vapor is the gaseous form of mercury, a heavy metal that is liquid at room temperature. When mercury is heated or exposed to the air, it can evaporate and form a colorless, odorless vapor that is highly toxic when inhaled. This form of mercury is particularly dangerous because it can be inhaled without the person realizing it, leading to prolonged exposure without immediate symptoms.

Mercury vapor is commonly released in various industrial settings, particularly in facilities where mercury is used in processes such as mining, manufacturing, or in the maintenance and disposal of mercury-containing products, like fluorescent lamps, thermometers, and certain types of electrical switches. When these items break or are improperly disposed of, they can release mercury vapor into the air, posing a risk to workers.

How Does Mercury Vapor Affect the Human Body?

Exposure to mercury vapor can have a wide range of health adverse effects, depending on the level and duration of exposure. Once inhaled, mercury vapor is readily absorbed into the bloodstream through the lungs, allowing it to travel throughout the body and build up in various organs, including the brain and kidneys. Here are some of the primary health effects of mercury vapor exposure:

1. Neurological Effects

Mercury vapor is particularly harmful to the central nervous system and can lead to severe neurological damage. Prolonged or high-level exposure can cause symptoms such as:

• Tremors and muscle weakness. Individuals exposed to mercury vapor may develop tremors or experience muscle weakness, which can affect coordination and motor skills.
• Memory loss and cognitive impairment. Mercury can damage brain cells, leading to memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and other cognitive impairments.
• Mood swings and emotional disturbances. Exposure to mercury vapor can also impact emotional regulation, resulting in mood swings, anxiety, depression, and irritability.
• Peripheral neuropathy. Some individuals may experience tingling or numbness in their extremities, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy, which is caused by nerve damage from mercury exposure.

2. Respiratory Issues

Mercury vapor is readily absorbed into the lungs, where it can cause significant respiratory problems, especially with prolonged exposure. These issues may include:

• Shortness of breath and chest pain. Inhaling mercury vapor can lead to respiratory distress, causing symptoms such as shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest pain.
• Chronic bronchitis and pneumonitis. Long-term exposure can result in chronic inflammation of the airways, leading to conditions like bronchitis and interstitial pneumonitis, a serious lung condition characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissue.
• Lung damage. Severe exposure can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a life-threatening condition where fluid builds up in the lungs’ air sacs, reducing oxygen flow and requiring emergency medical intervention.

3. Renal (Kidney) Damage

The kidneys are particularly vulnerable to mercury exposure, as they work to filter toxins from the blood. Over time, exposure to mercury vapor can lead to:

• Proteinuria. This condition, characterized by the presence of abnormal amounts of protein in the urine, indicates kidney damage.
• Nephrotoxicity. High levels of mercury can cause direct damage to kidney cells, impairing their function and potentially leading to kidney failure in severe cases.
• Increased risk of renal disease. Long-term exposure to mercury increases the risk of developing chronic kidney disease, which may require dialysis or lead to kidney transplantation.

4. Immune System Impacts

Mercury exposure can also negatively affect the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections and illnesses. Some potential immune-related effects include:

• Autoimmune disorders. Exposure to mercury vapor may trigger autoimmune responses, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, leading to conditions such as multiple sclerosis or lupus.
• Increased susceptibility to infections. Mercury exposure can weaken the immune system, leaving individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses.

Occupational Risks and Safety Measures

In workplaces where mercury exposure is possible, especially in industries like mining, manufacturing, and healthcare, it is crucial to implement safety measures to minimize risks. Employers should ensure:

• Proper ventilation. Adequate ventilation systems should be in place to prevent the accumulation of mercury vapor in confined spaces.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Workers should be provided with appropriate PPE, such as respirators and gloves, to prevent inhalation and skin contact with mercury.
• Regular monitoring and air testing. Regular air quality monitoring should be conducted to detect any presence of mercury vapor and ensure levels remain within safe limits.
• Training and awareness programs. Workers should receive training on the risks of mercury exposure and proper handling and disposal procedures for mercury-containing materials.