HI 215 Lecture Notes - Lecture 12: Mercury Poisoning, Cinnabar, Lead Poisoning
Document Summary
Cinnabar and silver mining led to the exposure of mercury to populations. While mitayos and workers in the mines were most vulnerable, mercury vapors were in the air of huanc, potosi and other silver communities. They were exposed to silica and carbonic acid as well, lead to lead poisoning. Mercury poisoning has both physical and neuropsychological effects, yet this depends on the dosage and how it enters the body. Ex: if someone swallows it, it will be excreted. Ex: if it"s on the skin, 5% will be absorbed. Ex: if it"s inhaled, 85% will remain in the body. This was what happened with the mercury vapors being released. It was difficult to diagnose this as many symptoms are symptoms to other illnesses (and they may not be noticed right away b/c they are sub-clinical symptoms) like personality change and memory loss. Issue of polymetallic intoxication, resulting from different forms of heavy metals.
