Selenium is a naturally occurring substance that is widely but unevenly distributed in the Earth's crust and is commonly found in sedimentary rock. Selenium is not often found in its pure form but is usually combined with other substances. Much of the selenium in rocks is combined with sulfide minerals or with silver,
copper,
lead, and nickel minerals. When rocks change to soils, the selenium combines with oxygen to form several substances, the most common of which are sodium selenite and sodium selenate. Some selenium compounds are gases, but hydrogen selenide is probably the only gaseous selenium compound that might pose a health concern in
occupational settings.
Selenium is an essential element for humans and animals. Humans and animals can use both inorganic and organic selenium compounds. Selenium, however, is harmful to humans and animals when eaten in amounts that are not much higher than the amounts needed for good nutrition. Dangerous levels of selenium may be found in
coal ash, a byproduct of coal fired power plants. On occasion, selenium may escape from landfills containing coal ash and contaminate nearby drinking water supplies. Selenium can cause rashes,
dizziness,
fatigue, irritation, collection of fluid in the
lungs and severe
bronchitis.
See your doctor if you have experienced serious health problems because of selenium exposure. 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
time limits within which you must commence suit.
See Also
- Toxic & Hazardous Substances
- Balance Problems: Overview
- Bronchitis: Overview
- Bronchospasm: Overview
- Diarrhea: Overview
- Digestive Disorders: Overview
- Fatigue: Overview
- Hair Loss: Overview
- Head, Spinal Cord, Brain & Nerve Disorders: Overview
- Lung & Airway Disorders
- Male Infertility: Overview
- Menstruation: Overview
- Nausea: Overview
- Pulmonary Edema: Overview
- Skin Disorders: Overview
- Selenium: Frequently Asked Questions