Zinc toxicity

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Zinc toxicity
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, fatigue
Complications	Copper deficiency, neuropathy, anemia, immunosuppression
Onset	Minutes to hours after exposure
Duration	Variable, depending on exposure level
Types	N/A
Causes	Excessive zinc intake, inhalation of zinc fumes
Risks	Occupational exposure, dietary supplements
Diagnosis	Blood test for zinc levels, urine test
Differential diagnosis	Lead poisoning, copper deficiency, gastroenteritis
Prevention	Avoid excessive zinc intake, use protective equipment in industrial settings
Treatment	Discontinuation of zinc exposure, supportive care, chelation therapy
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Generally good with prompt treatment
Frequency	Rare
Deaths	N/A

Overview of zinc toxicity in humans

Zinc toxicity refers to the adverse health effects that occur when the body is exposed to excessive levels of zinc. Zinc is an essential trace element necessary for various biological functions, but in high doses, it can be harmful.

Causes

Zinc toxicity can occur from excessive dietary intake, overuse of zinc supplements, or exposure to zinc-containing substances such as zinc oxide or zinc chloride. Industrial exposure, such as inhalation of zinc fumes during welding, can also lead to toxicity.

Symptoms

The symptoms of zinc toxicity can vary depending on the level and duration of exposure. Common symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Headache
• Lethargy

Chronic exposure to high levels of zinc can lead to more severe health issues, such as:

• Copper deficiency
• Neurological disorders
• Impaired immune function

Mechanism

Zinc toxicity primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract and can interfere with the absorption of other essential minerals, such as copper and iron. Excessive zinc can disrupt cellular processes and enzyme functions, leading to oxidative stress and cellular damage.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of zinc toxicity is based on clinical symptoms and confirmed by measuring elevated levels of zinc in the blood or urine. A detailed history of dietary intake and potential exposure sources is also important.

Treatment

Treatment involves removing the source of zinc exposure and managing symptoms. In cases of severe toxicity, chelation therapy may be used to bind and remove excess zinc from the body. Supportive care, including hydration and electrolyte management, is also important.

Prevention

Preventing zinc toxicity involves adhering to recommended dietary allowances and avoiding excessive use of zinc supplements. Occupational safety measures should be implemented to reduce industrial exposure.

See also

• Zinc deficiency
• Trace elements
• Heavy metal poisoning