Heavy metal Test

What is a heavy metal test?

A heavy metal test examines the levels of heavy metals in the blood or urine. High levels can indicate that a person has had exposure to heavy metals.

At-home heavy metal tests use urine and blood samples to screen for long-term and recent exposure to these metals.

The heavy metals that tests most commonly screen for are 👇👇👇👇:

👉 Lead

👉 Arsenic

👉 Mercury

👉 Cadmium

What are heavy metal tests used for?

A person can use a heavy metal test to see if they have experienced exposure to heavy metals and how much metal is in their body.

People may use a heavy metal test if they have symptoms of heavy metal poisoning or if they live or work in places where heavy metal exposure is likely.

Children may take a heavy metal test as part of standard screening procedures in certain states when entering the United States.

When should people test for heavy test

Heavy metals are present in the environment and living organisms, such as plants and animals. Heavy metals occur naturally in the air, but human activity can significantly increase their levels. Soil erosion, sewage discharge, and pesticides are some causes of higher levels of heavy metals in the air.

However, while heavy metals are naturally present in living organisms, high amounts of these metals can lead to toxicity.

People may wish to consider a heavy metal test if they have had possible exposure to heavy metals or live in an older house or an area with aging water pipes.

Additionally, some children under 6 years of age  may require lead testing. Lead is a heavy metal that can lead to brain damage and behavioral conditions, especially in children whose brains are still developing.

The center for disease control and prevention (CDC) note that this test should be essential for “all refugee children who are 6 months to 16 years of age upon entering the United States” and those who have lived in an older building in poor repair.

A pediatrician may recommend lead testing for other young children, depending on their living conditions and the presence of any symptoms.

Symptoms of heavy metal poisoning 

If a person displays any symptoms of heavy metal poisoning, they should contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible for treatment and advice.

The general symptoms of heavy metal poisoning include:

👉 nausea and vomiting

👉 Abdominal pain

👉 Diarrhea

👉 Tingling in the hands and feet

👉 Chills

However, a person’s symptoms may depend on the specific type of heavy metal poisoning.

How to choose heavy metal tests

A person may wish to consider the following factors when purchasing an at-home heavy metal test:

👉 Types of heavy metal it measures: If a person suspects that they have had exposure to a particular heavy metal, they should make sure that it is on the list of metals that the test measures.

👉 Collection method: Some people may find it easier and more comfortable to collect a urine sample than a blood sample.

👉 Company labs: It is important to select an at-home test kit from a company that uses certified labs. This means that the labs adhere to state or federal regulations.

However, at-home heavy metal tests are not a substitute for advice and treatment from a healthcare professional. If a person is showing any symptoms of heavy metal poisoning, they should contact a doctor as soon as possible for further advice.

Risks associated with heavy metal tests

A person should be aware of the risk of contaminating the sample when taking an at-home heavy metal test. People should closely follow any instructions about preparing, collecting, storing, and sending their samples to minimize the risk of contaminating them.

In heavy metal tests requiring a blood sample, there may be a small risk of bruising at the site from which a person took the sample.

The results of an at-home heavy metal test may not always be accurate. Additionally, an at-home test may not be suitable for the type of heavy metal exposure a person has experienced.

A person may wish to research further before buying an at-home heavy metal test to make sure it is the right for their needs and from a reputable company that uses trusted testing facilities.

What causes heavy metal poisoning?

Heavy metals occur naturally and are present in air, soil and water . They are also a byproduct of many industrial activities.

Work, pollution, and certain products can expose people to heavy metals. Heavy metals may also be present in some foods, such as mercury-contaminated fish.

How to get tested

Tests for heavy metals can analyze blood, urine, hair, or fingernails. Of these, blood and urine testing are more frequently used. The optimal form of testing depends on the metals being measured and whether the exposure is thought to be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic).

The test is normally ordered by a doctor who has reviewed your situation including any symptoms and possible toxic metal exposures. Test samples are usually taken at a doctor’s office, clinic, or hospital, although some urine tests require you to collect all your urine over a 24-hour period. Once the sample is collected, it is analyzed in a qualified medical laboratory

Are heavy metal tests accurate?

If a company uses CLIA- or CAP-certified labs, the test results are more likely to be accurate. However, user error, such as collecting a sample incorrectly, can affect accuracy.

People should not use an at-home test as a replacement for a diagnosis from a healthcare professional. If a person believes that they may have heavy metal poisoning, they should contact a doctor as soon as possible for advice

Heavy metals occur both naturally and as a byproduct of human activity. High amounts of heavy metals in the body can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and behavioral changes.

An at-home heavy metal test checks the amount of these materials in the body. People should not use these products as a replacement for testing, diagnosis, and advice from a healthcare professional. If a person has any symptoms of heavy metal poisoning, they should contact a doctor as soon as possible.

What test results show

Test results can show whether a person has elevated levels of a range of different heavy metals in their system. A person’s results may also explain what each result means for their health.

Some tests may include suggestions for the next steps, such as arranging an appointment with a healthcare professional. A person may wish to contact a doctor if they receive results that suggest high or low levels of heavy metals.