Antimony

Elevated hair antimony levels have been noted as long as a year after exposure.

Possible sources of antimony: 
- Food and smoking are the usual sources of antimony. Thus cigarette smoke can externally contaminate hair, as well as contribute to uptake via inhalation. 
- Gunpowder (ammunition) often contains antimony. Firearm enthusiasts often have elevated levels of antimony in hair. 

Other possible sources are: 
- textile industry, 
- metal alloys, 
- and some anti-helminthic and anti-protozoal drugs. 
- Antimony is also used in the manufacture of paints, glass, ceramics, solder, batteries, bearing metals and semiconductors.

Possible symptoms:

Symptoms can be variable, including fatigue, myopathy (muscle aches and inflammation), hypotension, angina and immune dysregulation.

Early signs of Antimony excess include: 
- fatigue, 
- muscle weakness, 
- myopathy, 
- nausea, 
- low back pain, 
- headache, 
- and metallic taste. 

Later symptoms include: 
- hemolytic anemia, 
- myoglobinuria, 
- hematuria 
- and renal failure.

Treating high levels of antimony in a hair test involves addressing potential exposure sources and considering medical evaluation. Here are steps to consider:

1. Identify the Source: Determine the source of antimony exposure, which could include occupational exposure, contaminated products, or environmental factors. Identifying the source is crucial for prevention.

2. Remove the Source: If the source of antimony exposure is known, take steps to eliminate or reduce it. For instance, if it's related to a specific product or environment, limit exposure to that source.

3. Medical Evaluation: Consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. High levels of antimony in hair may indicate potential health risks. A healthcare provider can assess your overall health and recommend further steps.

4. Chelation Therapy: In severe cases of antimony poisoning, chelation therapy may be considered. Chelation agents can help remove heavy metals like antimony from the body. This therapy should only be administered by qualified medical professionals.

5. Nutritional Support: Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients to support overall health and the body's natural detoxification processes. Consult a healthcare provider or nutritionist for guidance.

6. Follow-Up Monitoring: Regularly monitor antimony levels in the body, including hair, to track progress and ensure that exposure has been effectively reduced.

It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on managing high antimony levels in hair. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and health status.

Possible sources of antimony: 
- Food and smoking are the usual sources of antimony. Thus cigarette smoke can externally contaminate hair, as well as contribute to uptake via inhalation. 
- Gunpowder (ammunition) often contains antimony. Firearm enthusiasts often have elevated levels of antimony in hair. 

Other possible sources are: 
- textile industry, 
- metal alloys, 
- and some anti-helminthic and anti-protozoal drugs. 
- Antimony is also used in the manufacture of paints, glass, ceramics, solder, batteries, bearing metals and semiconductors.