In general, hair provides a rough estimate of exposure to Arsenic absorbed from food and water. However, hair can be contaminated externally with Arsenic from air, water, dust, shampoos and soap. Inorganic Arsenic, and some organic Arsenic compounds, can be associated with toxicity. Inorganic Arsenic accumulates in hair, nails, skin, thyroid gland, bone and the gastrointestinal tract. Organic Arsenic, such as that derived from shellfish, is rapidly excreted in the urine.
Arsenic can cause malaise, muscle weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, dermatitis, and skin cancer. Long-term exposure may affect the peripheral nervous, cardiovascular and hematopoietic systems. Arsenic is a major biological antagonist to selenium. Common sources of Arsenic are insecticides (calcium and lead arsenate), drinking water, smog, shellfish (arsenobetaine), and industrial exposure, particularly in the manufacture of electronic components (gallium arsenide). Arsenic burden can be confirmed by urine elements analysis. Comparison of urine Arsenic levels pre and post provocation (DMPS, DMSA, D-penicillamine) permit differentiation between recent uptake and body stores.
Treating high levels of arsenic in hair typically involves addressing the underlying arsenic exposure and its potential health effects. Here are steps that can be taken:
→ Identify the Source: Determine the source of arsenic exposure, which could be from contaminated drinking water, contaminated food, occupational exposure, or environmental factors. Identifying the source is crucial to prevent further exposure.
→ Remove the Source: If the source of arsenic exposure is known, take immediate steps to eliminate or reduce exposure. For example, if arsenic is present in drinking water, install water purification systems to remove arsenic.
→ Medical Evaluation: Consult a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation. High levels of arsenic in hair may indicate potential health risks. A healthcare provider can assess your overall health and determine if treatment is necessary.
→ Chelation Therapy: In severe cases of arsenic poisoning, chelation therapy may be recommended. Chelation agents are administered under medical supervision to help remove heavy metals like arsenic from the body. This therapy should only be administered by qualified medical professionals.
→ Nutritional Support: Ensuring a balanced diet rich in nutrients like vitamins and minerals can support overall health and the body's natural detoxification processes. Consult a healthcare provider or nutritionist for guidance.
→ Follow-Up Monitoring: Regularly monitor arsenic levels in the body, including hair, to track progress and ensure that exposure has been effectively reduced.
It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for guidance on managing high arsenic levels in hair. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific situation and health status.
Elemental analysis provides a good estimate of exposure to inorganic arsenic (As). However, hair can be contaminated externally with As from air, water, dust, shampoos and soap. Inorganic As, and some organic As compounds, can cause toxicity. Some research suggests that As may beessential at extremely low levels but its function is not understood. Inorganic As accumulates inhair, nails, skin, thyroid gland, bone and the gastrointestinal tract. Organic As is rapidly excreted in the urine.
Arsenic
