Barium is a silvery-white metal found in nature. It occurs combined with other
chemicals such as sulfur or carbon and oxygen. These combinations are called compounds. Barium compounds can also be produced by industry.
Barium compounds are used by the oil and gas industries to make drilling muds. Drilling muds make it easier to drill through rock by keeping the drill bit lubricated. They are also used to make paint, bricks, tiles, glass, and rubber.
A barium compound (barium sulfate) is sometimes used by
doctors to perform medical tests and to take barium-rays of the stomach.
Exposure to barium occurs mostly in the
workplace or from drinking contaminated water. Ingesting high levels of barium can cause problems with the
heart,
stomach,
liver,
kidneys, and other organs. This chemical has been found in at least 649 of 1,416 National Priorities List
sites identified by the
Environmental Protection Agency.
See a doctor if you or a family member has been harmed by Barium. In addition, it
may be important to
contact an attorney who
can help you protect your legal rights. Please keep in mind that there
may be
timelimits within which you must commence suit.
Attorneys associatedwith InjuryBoard.com will evaluate your case
free of charge.
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See Also
- Toxic & Hazardous Substances
- Digestive Disorders: Overview
- Head, Spinal Cord, Brain & Nerve Disorders: Overview
- Heart Problems
- High Blood Pressure (hypertension): Overview
- Joints & Muscles: Overview
- Kidney & Urinary Tract Disorders
- Liver Problems
- Lung & Airway Disorders
- Spleen Disorders
- Barium: Frequently Asked Questions