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Common Sources of Heavy Metal Toxicity

Traces of heavy metals in the body, such as zinc, iron, copper, and manganese, is normal and even necessary, as they help the body function properly. However, too much heavy metal content in the body can be toxic and potentially dangerous, leading to serious health concerns. Suffering from heavy metal toxicity can happen in many different ways. Here, Balance of Life Clinic, an integrative medicine clinic serving patients in Northeastern Ohio, details the most common causes of heavy metal toxicity.

Causes and Risk Factors

Heavy metal poisoning is caused by an accumulation of certain metals in the body, by way of exposure. This can happen in the following ways:

• Being exposed to water pollution
• Ingestion of lead-based paints
• Using improperly coated food containers, plates, and cookware
• Ingesting certain medicines or supplements with high amounts of metallic elements
• Industrial exposure
• Eating certain foods that contain metals (fish)
• Ingestion of insecticides, herbicides, and pesticides
• Commonly working with or handling metals on the job
• Related scenarios

Metals that can cause harm to the body are very hard to see and in microscopic (molecular) form when they enter the body. Various ways these metals can enter the body include:

• Breathing in or inhaling the tiny metal molecules
• Ingesting the metals when consuming food or water
• Absorbing the metals into the skin when touching or handling

The Dangers of Heavy Metal Toxicity

Large amounts of metals in the system are dangerous because heavy metals fight with components in cells, like enzymes and proteins. These components are crucial in helping organs function. The result of organs being unable to perform their duties due to heavy metals can result in severe symptoms of heavy metal poisoning that can be life-threatening without treatment.

How individuals respond to high levels of metals in their systems will vary. The severity of side effects of heavy metal toxicity depends on the amount of exposure as well as other factors. Health concerns that are a result of heavy metal poisoning can include:

• Pain in the abdominal
• Dehydration
• Feeling weak or fatigued
• Nausea or vomiting
• A scratchy feeling in the throat
• Chills or lower body temperature
• Diarrhea
• Issues with the digestive system
• Pain in the joints and muscles
• Numbness or prickly sensation in the hands and feet

In some cases, heavy metal toxicity can lead to extremely dangerous concerns, including:

• Short-term memory loss
• Livery damage
• Kidney damage
• Trouble breathing
• Complications during pregnancy
• Risk of developing other medical conditions
• Irregular heartbeat
• Anemia

Testing

To ensure levels of heavy metals in the body remain in healthy ranges, individuals can be tested. Toxic metal testing is used to better detect traces of various metals in the body, such as:

• Lead
• Mercury
• Arsenic
• Zinc
• Nickel
• Cadmium

To provide patients with the most accurate results, Balance of Life Clinic utilizes toxic metal urine tests. Based on the results, patients may be recommended chelation therapy. This treatment involves clearing the body of heavy metal toxins causing unwanted symptoms. This type of treatment may include oral medications to support the elimination of mercury, cadmium, and arsenic, along with calcium-disodium EDTA to address lead toxicity.

Request an Appointment Today

High traces of heavy metals in the body can lead to several unwanted and at times potentially harmful side effects. Heavy metals can enter the body in various ways, making it important for individuals to have access to accurate testing and solutions.

Balance of Life Clinic is dedicated to providing patients with a wide variety of natural health therapies and treatments to address an assortment of health concerns, including heavy metal toxicity. Located in Medina, OH, we proudly offer patients located throughout Northeastern OH, toxic metal testing and answers for treatment. To schedule an appointment or to speak with one of our providers, contact us today at Balance of Life Clinic.