The Dangers of Bismuth

Bismuth is an abundant element that features the highest diamagnetic properties of any metal as well as one of the lowest thermal conductivity ratings. In fact, only mercury has a lower thermal conductivity. The physical aspects of bismuth include a hard, brittle and heavy metallic finish that is white in color tinged with a hint of pink hue.

What is Bismuth?

Bismuth (atomic number: 83, element symbol: Bi) is a naturally occurring element that is used primarily in the manufacture of fusible alloys, low-melting solders, fishing anchors and shotgun pellets. It is also commonly found in many cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Natural bismuth is found in the ores of cobalt, nickel, tin and silver. It is mined throughout Peru, Japan, Bolivia, Canada and Mexico. In the United States, it is a by-product often produced during the smelting of copper and lead.

How am I Exposed to Bismuth?

Bismuth can enter the body through three means - inhalation, ingestion and through skin absorption. The most common exposures to bismuth include working in close correlation with the element. For instance, a plumber who uses a lot of solder can be exposed to bismuth by breathing in the fumes from soldering in a confined space. Bismuth compounds are used in a number of applications where it can come in direct contact with the body. For example:

• Bismuth subsalicylate is an active ingredient in many popular, over-the-counter upset stomach remedies like Pepto-Bismol™ and Kaopectate™.
• Bismuth oxychloride is used in many over-the-counter cosmetics.
• Bismuth subgallate is an active ingredient found in the product Devrom, which is used to treat flatulence odor problems.
• Some eye medicines feature Bibrocathol, an organic molecule that contains bismuth.

What are the Symptoms of Bismuth Exposure?

Bismuth is not considered a toxic element and the body can handle it fairly well in small enough doses. However, when exposure to bismuth is elevated, there are a number of health issues that may arise, and if the exposure level is severe enough, the results can even be fatal. When high levels of bismuth come in contact with the skin or eyes, it can cause some irritation at the site. Ingestion and inhalation are the two exposure methods which can carry the most dangerous effects. They include:

Since many upset stomach remedies include bismuth subsalicylate, it is important that children or teenagers who have or are recovering from chicken pox avoid using them as it may cause a rare but serious illness called Reye's Syndrome. Bismuth is not known to be a carcinogen but in truth, very little is known about the toxic effects of the element.

How do I Test Myself for Bismuth Exposure?

While there are no self-tests for determining the levels of bismuth in the body, there are certain blood and urine tests that medical professionals can perform. Bismuth levels in the blood can be determined through a specialized test called an electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry.

What are the Effects of Bismuth on the Environment?

Since bismuth is a non-toxic element, it is considered to have very minimal effects on our everyday environment. Even still, there is little known about bismuth and it should always be handled with extreme caution.

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