Toxic elements

Antimony, used in flame retardants, electronics, and alloys, can be toxic if inhaled or ingested. Main risks include respiratory irritation, skin problems, and, in severe cases, heart and lung issues. Those working in industries that use antimony or living near manufacturing sites have higher exposure risks. Using appropriate safety equipment and monitoring air and water quality can help prevent antimony toxicity....

Barium is a soft, silvery metal used in various industries, including manufacturing and medical diagnostics. While barium sulfate in medical imaging is safe, exposure to soluble barium compounds can be harmful, affecting the heart, causing muscle weakness, and damaging the kidneys and liver. Industrial workers and individuals near barium processing plants are at increased risk of exposure through inhalation or water contamination....

Beryllium, a lightweight metal used in aerospace, electronics, and nuclear industries, poses health risks when inhaled as dust or fumes. Beryllium exposure can lead to chronic beryllium disease (CBD), a serious lung condition, and skin diseases like dermatitis. The greatest risk occurs in industrial environments where beryllium is processed or machined....

Bismuth is a heavy metal commonly used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and some alloys. While generally considered safe, excessive intake of bismuth, especially from medications like Pepto-Bismol, can lead to toxicity. Symptoms of bismuth toxicity include neurological problems, such as confusion and poor coordination. Most exposure to bismuth is through ingestion of bismuth-containing products....

Gadolinium is a rare earth metal used as a contrast agent in MRI scans. Though generally safe, there's concern about gadolinium deposits remaining in the body long after scans, particularly in individuals with kidney issues. Symptoms of gadolinium toxicity include skin thickening, bone pain, and cognitive disturbances....

Glyphosphate: Glyphosphate is a chemical compound used as an active ingredient in many herbicides. It acts by blocking an enzyme necessary for plant growth, making it effective for weed control. Glyphosphate is commonly used on crops such as wheat, soybean and corn and can be present in food and water. Exposure to glyphosphate has been linked to potential health risks, and its presence in the body can provide insights into environmental and dietary impacts.

Gold, prized for its aesthetic and industrial value, can also pose health risks when exposure exceeds safe levels. Found in electronics, dentistry, and jewelry, gold rarely causes issues in small amounts. However, prolonged skin contact with gold-containing products or exposure to gold dust in industrial environments can lead to dermatitis and other allergic reactions. Inhalation of gold nanoparticles is a concern in manufacturing settings, potentially affecting respiratory health....

Microplastic particles refer to tiny fragments of plastic, typically less than 5 millimeters in size, with this test specifically focusing on particles smaller than 30 micrometers. These particles can originate from a wide range of sources, including food packaging, textiles, cosmetics, personal care products, and environmental pollution. Once ingested or inhaled, microplastics may enter the bloodstream and circulate in the body.

Palladium, a metal used in electronics, jewelry, and dental materials, can be toxic if inhaled or ingested in large amounts. Occupational exposure is the most common risk, leading to respiratory, skin, and digestive issues. Palladium allergy is also possible, causing dermatitis....

Platinum, a precious metal used in automotive catalytic converters, jewelry, and chemotherapy drugs, poses health risks when inhaled or comes into prolonged skin contact. Workers in industries that use platinum and people wearing platinum-based jewelry may experience allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and skin irritation. Avoiding excessive exposure and using protective gear in industrial settings can mitigate health risks....

Silver has various uses in industry and medicine but can turn toxic with significant human exposure. Small silver amounts are normal in the environment and products. Yet, too much exposure risks health issues like argyria. This condition permanently turns the skin blue-gray. Eating, breathing in, or touching silver compounds can cause argyria and might harm the liver and kidneys....

Tin, found in various alloys, food packaging, and electronics, is generally low in toxicity. However, certain organic tin compounds used in industrial processes can pose health risks, such as skin and eye irritation, digestive issues, and in extreme cases, neurological problems. Those handling tin in manufacturing or using tin-containing products should be aware of potential risks. Avoiding unnecessary exposure to organic tin compounds and adhering to safety guidelines are key to preventing tin toxicity....

Titanium is widely used in medical implants, cosmetics, and paints, known for its strength and corrosion resistance. While elemental titanium is considered safe, inhalation of titanium dioxide particles, especially in powder form, can cause respiratory issues. Workers in industries processing titanium materials and users of certain cosmetics might face exposure risks. Adopting safety protocols and using protective equipment can help prevent inhalation of titanium particles....

Uranium, a radioactive element used in nuclear power and weapons, poses health risks primarily through radiation exposure and chemical toxicity. Ingesting or inhaling uranium can damage the kidneys and increase cancer risk due to its radioactivity. The most significant exposure risks come from living near uranium mining, processing facilities, or contaminated sites. Reducing exposure involves using water filters and following safety guidelines in affected areas....