Toxic element exposure: diagnosis and treatment

 Urine Toxic element testing may help identify possible contributors to chronic health problems.

Toxic elements can block the beneficial effects of essential elements (e.g. zinc, calcium) by replacing them in important biochemical processes. For example, lead can replace calcium in bone. Toxic elements can also increase free radical levels that contribute to tissue inflammation and chronic disease.

A single large exposure to a toxic element is rare and generally considered a medical emergency. On the other hand, it is relatively easy for small amounts of toxic elements to accumulate over time. Measurement of toxic elements in urine can help determine if toxic element accumulation has occurred, although having higher than expected levels does not prove toxic elements is causing symptoms.

It is important to speak with Dr. Jeffrey J. Hunt N.D. if you are concerned that toxic elements are contributing to your health problems. The following diseases and conditions have been associated with toxic element exposure:

Central Nervous System: tingling in the hands and feet, mental confusion, and an abnormal gait are symptoms that could be caused by ongoing exposure to small amounts of toxic elements.

 Heart Disease: chronic exposure to toxic elements may damage red blood cells and/or contribute to risk for heart disease.

Digestion: inflammation in the gastrointestinal system with vomiting and/or diarrhea has been linked to toxic element exposure.

Sources of Toxic Elements

Toxic elements are found in common household products and may contribute to a variety of symptoms.

• • Aluminum is found in cooking utensils, antiperspirants, some pickled foods, toothpaste, nasal spray, automotive exhausts, ceramics and baking powder. Signs of toxicity may include impaired memory & increased risk of heart disease.

• Arsenic is found in pressure-treated wood used in decks and playground equipment. Early signs of arsenic toxicity may include headaches, fatigue, restlessness, insomnia, drowsiness, dizziness, stomach aches, and pain.

• Cadmium is found in cigarette smoke, some paint pigments, and in a variety of industrial products. Fatigue may be an early sign of cadmium toxicity.

• Lead is still around from the days when we used leaded gasoline in cars, lead solder in plumbing and leaded paints. Lead exposure may contribute to mood and personality problems.

• Mercury is found in dental fillings, fluorescent lights, and some electronics. Chronic exposure to mercury primarily affects the brain and nervous system. Symptoms like: weakness, fatigue, numbness in fingers and toes, weight loss and gastrointestinal disturbances are common with ongoing exposure to mercury.

• Tin is found in canned foods. If acidic foods are sealed in an un-lined tin can, significant absorption of tin can occur. Excess absorption of tin may contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms.

Why Test?

Good health has a lot to do with maintaining balance: the right balance of work and play, the right balance of nutrients in the diet, and the right kinds of foods.

 Toxic element exposure may be a contributing factor to a variety of chronic illnesses. Urine element testing is useful for monitoring treatment of toxic element exposure.