Sources of Barium Exposure
Barium exposure can occur through various means, including occupational hazards, groundwater contamination, environmental pollution, cigarette smoke, and certain medical procedures. Industrial use is particularly concerning due to its potential for extensive environmental pollution.
One notable example is large, flat-panel televisions. These devices have skyrocketed in popularity, driven by celebrity endorsements and decreasing prices, suggesting their prevalence will continue. Both old and new televisions contain chemicals and toxic metals. According to UC Davis’ Department of Chemical Engineering, common toxins in most televisions include arsenic, barium, cadmium, lead, and mercury. When televisions are disposed of improperly, they pose a significant threat to the environment and groundwater. Think about how many people you know who have replaced an old television in the last five years. While we often hear that television can be bad for the brain, the environmental and public health risks from improper disposal add a new dimension to that idea.
Another source of barium exposure is cigarette smoke. The CDC’s Office of Smoking and Health reports that cigarette smokers have higher levels of chemicals and toxic metals, including cadmium, lead, and barium.
Barium salts are used in medical imaging to improve x-ray quality. Certain radiological procedures might require patients to drink a barium sulfate solution or undergo a barium enema for a colon x-ray. In 2003, a contaminated barium solution was linked to 44 suspected cases of barium poisoning and up to 9 deaths. Following this incident, the CDC advises patients and clinicians to be aware of barium toxicity risks after radiologic procedures.
What are the Symptoms of Barium Exposure?
According to Morristown Memorial Hospital in New Jersey, symptoms of barium toxicity include low blood potassium, cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory failure, gastrointestinal issues, paralysis, muscle twitching, and high blood pressure. Severe cases can lead to kidney damage, respiratory failure, and even death. Regular exposure to barium has also been suggested as a potential factor in the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis.
The Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Massachusetts Medical School documented a case where a man ingested fireworks and subsequently developed barium poisoning. He experienced reduced mental function, heart problems, and respiratory failure. After being treated with a ventilator and potassium supplementation, his condition improved. Potassium supplementation to counteract barium toxicity has been recognized since at least the early 1930s.
Addressing Barium Exposure Concerns
Barium levels in the body can be measured through samples of bone, blood, feces, or urine, although these tests cannot determine the duration or level of exposure. If you’re worried about the impact of barium or other toxic chemicals, take a personal inventory to assess your exposure risks. Are you drinking purified water? Are you eating organic foods free from pesticides? Do you live in an area prone to industrial contamination? Are you cleansing your body regularly? These are some factors to consider. Once you identify potential sources of toxins, you can take steps to eliminate them from your life.
