Doctor's Assessment Included

Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Heavy Metals

Mercury

As part of comprehensive health screening, a mercury blood test helps you understand your environmental exposure to this neurotoxic metal. Monitoring mercury levels empowers you to make informed dietary and lifestyle choices.

What It Measures

This test measures the concentration of mercury in your blood. Mercury exists in several forms, with methylmercury from fish being the most common source of exposure. Other sources include dental amalgams, broken thermometers, and certain industrial processes.

Why It Matters

Mercury is a potent neurotoxin that can accumulate in the body over time. Elevated levels may be associated with neurological symptoms, mood changes, and tremors. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should be particularly aware, as mercury can affect fetal and infant development.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended if you consume fish frequently, have multiple dental amalgam fillings, work in industries involving mercury, or experience unexplained neurological symptoms. Consult a healthcare professional for interpretation of results.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Low levels of mercury are generally not a cause for concern and may indicate minimal exposure.

High Levels

Tremors, mood changes, memory difficulties, numbness or tingling, vision or hearing changes, fatigue.

Lifestyle Tips

Choose lower-mercury fish such as salmon, sardines, and tilapia over high-mercury options like swordfish and shark. Limit consumption of large predatory fish. If you have concerns about dental amalgams, discuss alternatives with your dentist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which fish are highest in mercury?

Large predatory fish such as swordfish, shark, king mackerel, and tilefish tend to contain the highest levels of mercury. Smaller fish and shellfish generally have lower mercury levels.

Can mercury from dental fillings affect my health?

Dental amalgam fillings contain mercury, and small amounts can be released as vapor. Most health authorities consider amalgam fillings safe for the general population, but individuals with concerns should discuss alternatives with their healthcare professional.

How long does mercury stay in the body?

The half-life of methylmercury in the blood is approximately 50 to 70 days. With reduced exposure, mercury levels will gradually decline. Consult a healthcare professional for guidance on monitoring your levels.