Heavy Metal Lab Testing
What is a Heavy Metal Testing?
A Heavy Metal Test is a diagnostic examination that assesses the presence of elevated levels of toxic or potentially harmful metals within the body. Exposure to toxic heavy metals can occur through environmental factors, certain foods, medications, and, at times, contaminated water. Absorption may take place through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion.
While small amounts of heavy metals are generally safe, excessive exposure can lead to metal poisoning, posing severe health risks. Without proper treatment, overexposure to specific heavy metals can even be fatal. Naturopath Osteopath Clinic healthcare providers may recommend a Heavy Metal Test if there are signs or symptoms of heavy metal poisoning.
What Does a Heavy Metal Test Look For?
Heavy Metal Tests aim to identify dangerous metals when present at specific concentrations. Common heavy metals assessed in these tests include:
- Arsenic
- Cadmium
- Chromium
- Lead
- Mercury
Additionally, a Heavy Metal Test may also include less common metals such as aluminum, copper, iron, manganese, nickel, selenium, silicon, thallium, and zinc.
Signs of Heavy Metal Poisoning:
The signs of heavy metal poisoning can be non-specific, often overlapping with symptoms of other conditions. Healthcare providers may recommend a Heavy Metal Test if individuals exhibit symptoms like:
- Abdominal pain
- Chills
- Diarrhea
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Tingling in hands or feet
Biological Samples Used in Heavy Metal Tests:
Heavy Metal Tests typically analyze samples in a laboratory setting. Common biological samples include blood, urine, fingernails, and hair. The selection of a specific sample depends on the metals being tested and the perceived duration of exposure. Blood and urine tests are most frequently used.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Preparing for a Heavy Metal Test:
Healthcare providers will provide specific instructions for preparation. Typically, individuals are advised to avoid consuming seafood for 48 hours before the test, as it can temporarily elevate some heavy metal levels. Additionally, substances like gadolinium-, barium-, and iodine-based contrasts used in imaging studies should be avoided for at least 96 hours before the test, as they may interfere with certain heavy metal tests.
During a Heavy Metal Test:
- Blood Tests: A blood sample is collected in the provider’s office through venipuncture or capillary fingerstick.
- Urine Tests: Individuals collect a urine sample at home over a 24-hour period using a provided container.
- Hair or Fingernail Tests: A professional at the provider’s office or hospital takes a hair or fingernail sample.
After a Heavy Metal Test:
After providing the sample, individuals can return home and resume normal activities. Laboratory specialists analyze the samples, and results are sent to healthcare providers. Results are typically reviewed with patients within a few days.
Interpreting Results and Follow-Up:
Results of a Heavy Metal Test:
Results indicate the levels of specific heavy metals. Low levels may suggest no heavy metal poisoning, while high levels may point to heavy metal toxicity.
Follow-Up and Treatment:
- Low levels may prompt additional tests to identify the cause of symptoms.
- High levels may necessitate avoiding exposure to the specific metal. If exposure reduction does not decrease levels, healthcare providers may prescribe chelation therapy to remove excess metals from the body.