Mercury (blood and urine)

What this test is

Mercury is a metal found in small amounts around us. Most people have a little in their blood, mostly from fish. That alone is usually not a problem. This test checks how much mercury is in your blood or urine. A blood test shows exposure from fish. A urine test shows exposure from other sources, like some jobs or skin creams. Your doctor picks the right one based on your exposure. Fillings with mercury (amalgams) are not a reason for this test. Exposure from fillings is very low. Removing fillings to lower mercury is not recommended. This test is genuinely useful if you eat a lot of high-mercury fish like tuna or swordfish, work around mercury, or are pregnant with a risk factor.