Barium Toxicity: Exposure has been associated with high blood pressure, brain swelling, heart damage, and breathing problems.

Barium is a naturally occurring metal found in many types of rocks. In stream water and most groundwater, only traces of barium are present. it is also used in oil and gas drilling muds, automotive paints, bricks, tiles and jet fuels.

How to test your body for Barium Toxicity: Comprehensive Urine Element Profile

How to test water for Barium Toxicity: WaterCheck

Recommended Barium Toxicity Water Treatment: Distillation or Reverse Osmosis[1]

Barium Toxicity Sources:

• Contaminated water, air or soil.
• Fish and aquatic organisms.
• Rat poisons and insecticides.
• Medical tests (barium enemas), barium salts.
• Drilling equipment used by oil and gas industries.
• Mining and refining, coal and oil burning emissions, processing plants (e.g. paint, brick, tile, glass, and rubber).
• Arc-welding, metal fabrication work, fireworks, pigments, and cathode ray tubes.

Synergistic for Barium Toxicity Uptake/Retention: [2]

•  Potassium or sulfate deficiency will increase Barium Toxicity

Antagonistic for Barium Toxicity Uptake/Retention: The following will help the body to decrease absorption and increase elimination of Barium Toxicity. [2]

• Calcium
• Potassium
• Vitamin c

Interactions of Barium Toxicity in the Body: [2]

·    Displaces potassium and increases stress hormone (catecholamines).

·     High levels may trigger ventricular fibrillation, bronchoconstriction, and brain swelling.

Symptoms of Excessive Barium Exposure: [2]

·      Difficulties in breathing

·      Increased blood pressure

·      Changes in heart rhythm

·      Stomach irritation

·      Brain swelling

·     Muscle tingling/weakness

·      May damage heart, liver, kidneys and spleen.

 Return form Barium Toxicity to Water Quality and Water Toxicities

References

[1] National Testing Laboratories, Ltd. Corrective Action Brochure

[2] Genova Diagnostics Toxic & Nutrient Elements Chart