Heavy Metal Toxicity

Heavy metal toxicity can wreak havoc on your body and overall health. Board-certified physician Mohammed Ansari, MD, is a medical expert at California Functional Internal Medicine Clinic in Mission Viejo, California, where he and the team diagnose and treat heavy metal toxicity. If you have health concerns that might be related to the danger that heavy metals can cause, book and appointment online now.

What is heavy metal toxicity?

Heavy metal toxicity refers to the accumulation of heavy metals in your body beyond normal levels, leading to adverse health effects. 

Heavy metals are naturally occurring elements found in the environment, but industrial activities, pollution, and certain occupations can increase exposure levels. Common heavy metals associated with toxicity include lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium.

What are the symptoms of heavy metal toxicity?

Symptoms of heavy metal toxicity can vary depending on the specific metal involved, the level of exposure, and factors, such as your age and overall health. However, common symptoms may include:

• Gastrointestinal issues
• Neurological symptoms
• Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
• Skin abnormalities
• Kidney dysfunction
• Musculoskeletal issues
• Behavioral changes

During your appointment with Dr. Ansari, he’ll learn about your symptoms, perform a comprehensive evaluation, and determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

What causes heavy metal toxicity?

Several factors contribute to heavy metal toxicity, including:

Environmental exposure

Pollution from industrial activities, mining, and agricultural practices can contaminate air, water, and soil with heavy metals, leading to human exposure through consumption, inhalation, or skin contact.

Occupational exposure

Certain occupations, such as mining, smelting, manufacturing, and construction, involve working with heavy metals or in environments where exposure is likely, increasing the risk of toxicity.

Food and water contamination

Heavy metals can enter the food chain through contaminated water sources, soil, or food processing methods.

How is heavy metal toxicity treated?

California Functional Internal Medicine Clinic treats heavy metal toxicity with a functional medicine approach. Dr. Ansari addresses the root cause and supports your body's natural detoxification processes. Treatment strategies may include:

Nutritional interventions

Providing your body with nutrients, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, can support detoxification pathways and help eliminate heavy metals.

Chelation therapy

Oral Chelation therapy is a treatment that uses ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and or other natural chelators to bind with heavy metals in your blody and facilitate their excretion through your urine or feces.

Lifestyle modifications

Dr. Ansari recommends avoiding further exposure to heavy metals by consuming organic foods, filtering water, and reducing your exposure to environmental pollutants.

Supportive therapies

Utilizing techniques like sauna therapy, lymphatic drainage, and acupuncture can enhance detoxification and support your overall health.

Individualized treatment plans

You can rely on Dr. Ansari to tailor your treatment based on your specific heavy metal exposure, health status, and biochemical individuality.

If you have symptoms of heavy metal toxicity, book an appointment online today.