Toronto Clinic For Preventive Medicine

Toxic Metals Poisoning

An unfortunate consequence of industrialization is the emission of toxic metals such as lead into the environment.

The scientific literature has documented many thousands of instances of toxic metal poisoning.

One of the insidious aspects of such poisoning is that toxic heavy metals often accumulate in the brain.

Accumulated lead exposure can lead to various disorders. In children, chronic lead poisoning may cause mental retardation, seizure disorders, aggressive behaviour disorders, and other problems. In adults, symptoms include personality changes, headache, metallic taste, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, vomiting and constipation.

Toxic metals are also used in traditional dentistry. The “silver” amalgams used by many dentists to fill cavities in teeth contain mercury, which can leach into the rest of the body and lead to a compromised immune system, which in turn can make the body vulnerable to other diseases. Fortunately, a growing number of dentists are using alternative composite fillings that have no toxic metals.

The main treatment for toxic metals poisoning is chelation. Intravenous chelation, carefully applied observing proper procedures, is the best and most gentle method of reducing toxic metals in the body.

Other methods, such as DMPS and DMSA, must be used with caution. DMPS is to be avoided in situations where the patient has mercury fillings. DMSA is very harsh on the body and may affect brain function and cause other problems.

Patients with serious health problems should investigate whether toxic metals poisoning is a factor. The clinic is fully familiar with the tests involved and the proper treatments.

Patients interested in investigating or treating the effects of toxic metals poisoning should call the clinic to arrange an appointment for a consultation.

Top

Disclaimer: The content of this site should be used only as a source of information. It is not intended as medical advice for individual situations. If you seek a specific treatment or advice, please consult a medical practitioner.