Symptoms of Mad Hatter Sickness
The degree of mercury exposure and the forms of mercury to which a person is exposed determine the symptoms of mercury poisoning. Chronic exposure causes symptoms of mad hatter illness.
The following are early signs of mercury poisoning:
- Gum irritation from coughing (gingivitis)
- Increased salivation
- Gastrointestinal symptoms
- A skin rash
- Trouble sleeping
More severe symptoms, such as: Later symptoms include:
- Anxiety and irritation
- Mood swings
- Overly timid behavior
- Tremors
- Sleeplessness
- Weakness, and partial leg paralysis
- Headaches
- Weak mental performance
- Alterations in feelings
- Memory shifts
- Character changes
Are There Still Cases of Mad Hatter Illness Today?
In the United States today, chronic mercury toxicity and mad hatter illness are rare. Only 24 of the 1,300 mercury cases in the nation in 2013Trusted Source caused moderate to severe issues.
This is a result of attempts to lower exposure levels, such as eliminating mercury from the hat-making process.