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What are the side effects of barium poisoning?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

My barium level shows greater than 50. I do not drink or smoke. Currently, I am on Winolap for urticaria. I need some help on this. Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Abhishek Kirti Dixit

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Abhishek Kirti Dixit is a nephrologist with expertise in kidney disorders, dialysis care, and hypertension management. He also practices internal and general medicine, with a strong focus on diabetes-related kidney health. Dr. Dixit is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment, helping patients manage chronic conditions effectively while improving their quality of life through preventive care and long-term health planning.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com. Increased barium exposure can occur through constant exposure, and this can be a result of various potential sources, including pollution. If you work in a setting involving electronics or frequently travel near factories, you may be at risk of elevated barium exposure. Additionally, recent radiological procedures like barium swallow can also contribute to increased levels. The issue of pollution-induced barium increase is becoming more significant, so it is essential to take measures to avoid unnecessary exposure. Being aware of these potential sources and taking appropriate precautions can help minimize the risks associated with heightened barium exposure.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I am working in an IT company. There is no factory nearby. But, my place is full of traffic. Will it cause any side effect? Should I follow any medicine?

Answered by Dr. Abhishek Kirti Dixit

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Abhishek Kirti Dixit is a nephrologist with expertise in kidney disorders, dialysis care, and hypertension management. He also practices internal and general medicine, with a strong focus on diabetes-related kidney health. Dr. Dixit is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment, helping patients manage chronic conditions effectively while improving their quality of life through preventive care and long-term health planning.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. Common symptoms of barium poisoning consist of muscle weakness, tremors, breathing difficulties, stomach irritations with diarrhea, anxiety, and cardiac irregularities like abnormally high blood pressure and rapid heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek prompt medical treatment. To reduce the risk of barium exposure, it is essential to avoid environmental exposure and refrain from consuming fish caught near industrial sites. Ensure that the fish and seafood you eat are free from barium and other heavy metals by sourcing them from reliable and safe locations. Taking these precautions can help mitigate the potential dangers associated with barium poisoning.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

My cholesterol is 205 and it is hereditary as all my family members have high cholesterol. Even if I cut off dairy and non-vegetarian foods, it still stays 200. Is it necessary to take medicine to control it? Is it too high?

Answered by Dr. Abhishek Kirti Dixit

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Abhishek Kirti Dixit is a nephrologist with expertise in kidney disorders, dialysis care, and hypertension management. He also practices internal and general medicine, with a strong focus on diabetes-related kidney health. Dr. Dixit is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment, helping patients manage chronic conditions effectively while improving their quality of life through preventive care and long-term health planning.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com. I don't have personal health data, including my own cholesterol levels. However, I can provide general information. The cutoff limit for total cholesterol is typically considered to be 200 mg/dL. The new guidelines recommend LDL cholesterol to be around 70 mg/dL and HDL cholesterol to be around 70 mg/dL as well (LDL 70 : HDL 70). Maintaining such levels can be challenging, but it's essential to work towards improving cholesterol levels.

For a cholesterol level of 205 mg/dL, lifestyle modifications are advised, including reducing fat intake in food and engaging in regular exercise. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is also beneficial. If there are other comorbidities like hypertension, diabetes, or a strong family history of heart disease, a low dose of statin such as Atorvastatin 10 mg may be recommended. It is important to consult with a doctor, discuss the options, and take any prescribed medication with their consent, to effectively manage cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At November 23, 2016
Reviewed At December 9, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Abhishek Kirti Dixit is a nephrologist with expertise in kidney disorders, dialysis care, and hypertension management. He also practices internal and general medicine, with a strong focus on diabetes-related kidney health. Dr. Dixit is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment, helping patients manage chronic conditions effectively while improving their quality of life through preventive care and long-term health planning.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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Companion

Barium Poisoning Exposure & Symptoms Companion

How it works

Barium exposure can lead to various health concerns. This section helps you understand what barium poisoning is, its sources, symptoms, and how to reduce your risk.

1

Barium
Exposure

2

Exposure
Sources

3

Common
Symptoms

4

Cardiac
Effects

5

Reduce
Exposure

6

Medical
Care

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Abhishek Kirti Dixit is a nephrologist with expertise in kidney disorders, dialysis care, and hypertension management. He also practices internal and general medicine, with a strong focus on diabetes-related kidney health. Dr. Dixit is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based treatment, helping patients manage chronic conditions effectively while improving their quality of life through preventive care and long-term health planning.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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