Question

How should one handle the ingestion of mercury?

Answer

After accidentally swallowing mercury, it is generally understood that the amount of mercury in household items is relatively low and not easily absorbed by the digestive tract. It usually takes a few hours to a few dozen hours for it to be excreted from the body through feces. If a large amount is ingested, it is recommended to drink milk or egg whites, as the protein in them can bind with mercury to protect the gastric mucosa. Symptoms of mercury poisoning include burning pain in the mouth and throat, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Based on your description, the symptoms are not typical, so it is still advisable to go to the hospital for a check-up to ensure safety. Additionally, if mercury comes into contact with the eyes accidentally, the eyelids should be lifted immediately, and they should be rinsed with a large amount of running water or physiological saline solution.