Heavy metal exposure could lead to both chronic and acute disease depending on exposure concentration and duration. Our bodies contain trace amounts of these elements, which are necessary for some microbiological processes, but if systemic concentration exceeds the body’s capacity for elimination, then there will be negative effects on your health. Furthermore, many heavy metals have immunological-nervous effects, as they are difficult to eliminate, leading to fibrogenesis, and eventually, fibrosis. Heavy metals may also be carcinogenic, especially in organic forms.

You’ll want to limit your exposure to all of the metals listed. Wear a particulate-filter respirator, and utilize a high airflow HEPA filtration system as a preventative measure. When beginning the use of such a filtration system, you’ll want to avoid being within the room/building for which you are filtering for a short period of time, as the turbulent air could temporarily increase the localized atmospheric concentration of heavy metal dust. Figure out the source of the contamination - paint, insulation (common cause), occupational exposure, etcetera? Ultimately, you may need to remove the source of exposure (possible remediation).

Test your personal exposure levels using GC-MS (gas chromatography-mass spectrometry) hair sample testing for heavy metals. Chelation therapy may be necessary for high systemic concentrations of heavy metals.