1. How long will it take to get the results of my test?
Heavy metal analysis is not done on a routine basis and is frequently performed at a
reference laboratory, so the results are likely to take several days.
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2. How is someone exposed to toxic metals?
Heavy metals can enter the body through the skin or by inhalation or ingestion. Toxicity occurs when the metals displace the essential elements in the body and begin to affect the normal function of various organs. Most people will never be sufficiently exposed to be harmed or require testing. The majority of
acute and
chronic exposures occur in the workplace, especially in industries that use metals to manufacture products; such as the cadmium, lead, and mercury used in batteries and the arsenic used in some pesticides. Exposures can also occur in agricultural workers, in people whose job it is to clean up contaminated environmental sites, in those who work with certain products – such as auto mechanics working with car batteries, and in those with hobbies that involve the use of metals – such as the lead used by stained glass artisans. Most exposures to excessive concentrations in the general population are primarily due to increased levels of metals in food or water, products that they use, or soil contamination in or near the areas that they work and live.
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3. How can I test my soil, water, or the paint on my house for heavy metals?
See the
related links and explore the Environmental Protection Agency website. The EPA has information that can help you find a professional to evaluate your environment.
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4. In addition to lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium and chromium, what are some other metals that may be tested?
Some metals that are tested less frequently in suspected toxicity include:
- Aluminum
- Beryllium
- Cobalt
- Copper
- Iron
- Manganese
- Nickel
- Platinum
- Selenium
- Silicon
- Silver
- Thallium
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