Mercury Poisoning
Mercury is a metallic element that can be extremely toxic in high doses or through repeated exposure to the substance. Overexposure to mercury can cause mercury poisoning, a dangerous disease that can severely damage a patient’s brain, lungs, and kidneys.
Unfortunately, if you contract mercury poisoning, it can seriously affect your ability to continue working. Because mercury poisoning affects the immune system’s proper functioning, people with mercury poisoning tend to steadily decline in health and are sick much more frequently, causing them to miss work for extended periods of time. In some cases, people are never able to return to their jobs.
If you have suffered from mercury poisoning because of work-related activities, workers’ compensation benefits may be available to you. Contact the Pennsylvania workers’ compensation attorneys of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., at 610-667-7511 for more information.
Industries in which Mercury is Used
Jobs and industries that commonly use mercury include dentistry, hospitals, scientific laboratories, jewelry and glassware manufacturing, and gold and silver recovery. Additionally, mercury is commonly found in medical instruments, thermometers, pharmaceuticals, and fluorescent light bulbs.
Symptoms of Mercury Poisoning
It is very important to understand the signs and symptoms of mercury poisoning because it can help you better identify the disease, which can lead to an early diagnosis and faster treatment. If mercury poisoning is not treated in time, it can be fatal. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include:
- Psychological disturbances, such as memory loss, inability to sleep, etc.
- Oral problems, such as dark gums and loose teeth
- Digestive system problems, such as cramps and diarrhea
- Cardiovascular issues, such as changes in blood pressure
- Breathing problems, including chronic coughing and Emphysema
- Headaches
Contact Us
If you or a loved one suffered mercury poisoning due to their job, do not hesitate to contact the Pennsylvania mercury poisoning lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams, P.C., at 610-667-7511 to learn more about workers’ comp benefits.