Mercurial Poisoning
Mercury enters the body through the digestive and respiratory tracts and through the skin. The symptoms usually manifest in this kind of industrial poisoning are headache, gastric disturbances, stomatitis, metallic taste in the mouth and fetid breath; there is swelling and ulceration of the gums that cause the teeth to become loose, and there may be an excessive flow of saliva with a swelling of the submaxillary glands. In severe cases there may be tremors, paralysis, melancholy and loss of memory.
Mercury is used in the manufacture of incandescent lamps where they employ mercury pumps, in the manufacture of barometers and thermometers, in the felt and fur industries, in the manufacture of pharmaceutical preparations and chemical works, and in photography.
Methods used to prevent mercurial poisoning are almost identical with those used in lead poisoning. Special devices should be provided to keep the air in the breathing zone free from the fumes. This can best be accomplished by providing a proper system of mechanical ventilation. The workmen should wear rubber gloves to lessen the possibilities of the absorption through the skin. The workmen should also practice cleanliness and exercise care that mercury is not carried into the mouth by the hands which should be thoroughly washed before eating.