Signs of Arsenic Poisoning and Therapeutic Options

The quality of water and the purity of drinking water is a critically important issue worldwide, especially concerning chemical contaminants such as arsenic. Arsenic is an element that occurs naturally in the environment; however, its presence in water can pose serious health risks. Not all forms of arsenic are toxic; for example, elemental arsenic is not absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, while its water-soluble compounds are extremely dangerous. Water pollution and the presence of arsenic are particularly concerning, as the quality of consumed water directly affects people’s health.

Arsenic compounds are especially harmful because, in many cases, they are colorless and odorless, making them difficult to detect. Their concentration in drinking water above the threshold can lead to severe health problems. Scientific research continuously investigates the effects of arsenic, and the consumption of contaminated water and food is particularly alarming. Public health institutions are launching programs aimed at reducing pollution to ensure that the population has access to safe drinking water.

Sources and Effects of Arsenic

Arsenic is naturally found in the environment, mainly in the Earth’s crust. Its entry into water is usually of geological origin, as water from deeper soil layers may contain arsenic. However, it does not only enter drinking water due to natural causes; industrial activities such as mining, metal smelting, and waste incineration can also contribute to environmental arsenic pollution. The extent of arsenic pollution varies among different water sources; while surface waters typically have low levels, groundwater often has higher concentrations.

The threshold for arsenic pollution in water is 10 µg/l, and contamination above this limit is particularly concerning as it increases the risk of long-term health issues. The goal of drinking water quality improvement programs is to purify contaminated waters to provide safe drinking water for the population. In recent years, as a result of these programs, the number of municipalities exceeding the threshold has significantly decreased, which is a positive sign.

Toxic Effects and Symptoms of Arsenic

Arsenic can enter the body in various ways, most commonly through water and food. The solubility of arsenic compounds in water poses the greatest risk, as the more soluble a compound is, the easier it is for the gastrointestinal tract to absorb it. There are different forms of poisoning: acute and chronic. In acute poisoning, symptoms appear quickly, within half an hour, and include nausea, diarrhea, and a drop in blood pressure. Chronic poisoning is a slower process that can cause fatigue, skin problems, and hair loss.

Arsenic accumulates in the body, particularly in keratinous tissues, the liver, and bones. Prolonged intake can lead to cellular damage, which may result in cancer. Epidemiological studies have shown a correlation between arsenic-contaminated drinking water and pregnancy complications, which raises further concerns.

Treatment and Prevention of Arsenic Poisoning

The treatment of arsenic poisoning can vary between acute and chronic cases. In suspected acute poisoning, the affected individual should be transported to a hospital immediately, where gastric lavage is performed, and lost fluids are replenished. Medications such as Dicaptol or penicillamine may be used as part of the treatment to help remove toxins from the body. Recognizing chronic poisoning is more challenging; however, continuous monitoring is required for those living in at-risk areas.

To prevent arsenic poisoning, it is essential to purify contaminated drinking water, drill new wells, and continuously monitor water quality. Informing the population and ensuring access to high-quality drinking water is crucial to reducing health risks associated with arsenic. Raising awareness and implementing appropriate precautions can help protect us from the toxic effects of arsenic.