Recent reports in New York City have highlighted serious arsenic contamination in the drinking water, raising concerns about public health. Residents of an apartment complex have been experiencing various symptoms related to long-term arsenic exposure for several years. But how does arsenic get into our drinking water, and what are the health implications?
How Arsenic Contaminates Drinking Water
Arsenic is an odorless, tasteless heavy metal that occurs naturally in the earth and can be white, gray, or silver. In industrialized areas, such as the United States, arsenic contamination is more common. Arsenic is present in treated wood, industrial plants, pesticides, and landfills—all of which can contribute to arsenic runoff into drinking water supplies.
Health Effects of Arsenic Exposure
Arsenic exposure can cause a wide range of symptoms. Initial signs often include red skin rashes that can spread across the body. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, heart arrhythmias, muscle cramps, and tingling in the hands and feet. Long-term exposure can lead to skin darkening, chronic digestive issues, and a persistent sore throat.
Sources of Arsenic Exposure
Arsenic can enter the body through contaminated food and water, inhalation, or even skin exposure. Foods like rice and wine may contain arsenic, so it’s best to choose organic options whenever possible. Unfortunately, in New York City—where water quality is generally trusted—residents have recently discovered extreme levels of arsenic in their drinking water after experiencing symptoms for years.
Testing for Arsenic Exposure
At the Salerno Center in New York, we use advanced testing methods to detect arsenic in both blood and urine. The blood test reveals acute arsenic exposure over the past three months, while a heavy metal challenge test involves administering chelating agents and measuring heavy metals, including arsenic, excreted through urine over seven hours.
Chelation Therapy and Detoxification
When high levels of arsenic are detected, intravenous chelation therapy is administered using CaEDTA, which binds to arsenic and facilitates its removal through the kidneys. Chelation is performed in a series of weekly IV treatments, followed by a retest after 10 sessions. Patients are also given oral vitamin E, selenium, Detox Factor, and recommendations for infra-red saunas, garlic, cilantro, and chlorella to aid detoxification. Proper bowel health, colonics, and probiotics are also key components of arsenic elimination.
Eliminating Exposure Sources
Beyond treatment, it’s crucial to eliminate the source of arsenic exposure to prevent future contamination. Long-term exposure to arsenic can lead to chronic health conditions and even be fatal.
Take Control of Your Health
The Salerno Center is dedicated to helping individuals identify and eliminate exposure to arsenic and at least 12 other heavy metals. Our comprehensive testing and treatment protocols are designed to detoxify the body and restore health.
If you are concerned about arsenic exposure or experiencing symptoms related to heavy metal toxicity, contact the Salerno Center for an appointment today. These toxic metals are often the underlying cause of many serious health conditions—get tested and take action now.
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