Back in August 2006, in two separate visits, I’d had 5 out of 7 silver amalgam dental fillings removed and replaced with composite. I hadn’t requested this be done. I hadn’t been to a dentist for about 7 years and the dentist determined that I had enough additional decay to warrant the removal and refill of my fillings. I wasn’t aware at the time of any potential problems with amalgam removal, so I didn’t protest. Also, this was a standard dentist, not someone who specializes in safe amalgam removal.

To make a long story short, I became acutely ill in September, two weeks after having silver amalgams removed. My main symptoms included nausea, loss of appetite, GERD, IBS-like symptoms, fatigue, poor memory, difficulty focusing/concentration and low body temperature(96.8F). Although, to some degree, I have experience numerous symptoms related to both mercury poisoning and candida. Since then, I have seen slow, gradual improvement. I feel that I am about 75% of normal at this point. I have some days that are better than others, but the trend is definitely toward improvement. I have treated myself with herbal/vitamin/mineral supplements which I believe has helped contribute to my improvement. Also, during this time, I seem to become intolerant of simple carbohydrates. So a diet with low carbs has been benficial. I have had some blood work and several GI-related tests which have revealed nothing.

I have done endless amounts of research since I have received no help from my doctors or dentist. I have been told that it is not possible for the removal of my amalgams to be the cause of all my symptoms. Prior to becoming ill, I was very healthy with maybe some slight fatigue issues. I never had GI problems whatsoever.

I have a few of questions for the forum.
Does this fit the pattern for toxic exposure to mercury?

Also I would like to have my mercury levels tested. Should I see a neurologist or is someone better qualified to test for mercury? Should I expect the same resistance to amalgam mercury exposure from this person as has been my experience in the past? Since possible exposure to mercury occurred about 10 months ago, can I expect to still be mercury toxic?

I have heard some mercury tests are unreliable. What would be the most reliable test available?

I still have two silver amalgams remaining that I would like to have removed. I am tempted to remove them, however, I am concerned that the same problem will occur. I have also read that one should begin mercury chelation after all fillings have been removed. What would be the suggested course of action here?

Sorry for the long-winded post. I will look forward to any responses/advice you may have. Thank you in advance!

CK