Health Risks of Manganese in Drinking Water

The health risks of manganese in drinking water shouldn’t be ignored. An Aquarius Water Conditioning expert can come to your home and check your water supply to see if it may have an excessive amount of the mineral. If it does – or if you have any other issues – we can install a high-quality, industry-standard Kinetico purification system. Your worries about the water you use to drink, bathe and wash your clothes and dishes will be in the rearview mirror once and for all.

What is Manganese?

Health Risks of Manganese in Drinking WaterManganese is a mineral that occurs naturally in the environment and is commonly found in rocks and soil. It’s also present in some foods and is an essential nutrient for human health. However, when manganese levels in drinking water exceed the recommended limits, it can pose significant health risks. The following is a look at some of the more important ones.

Neurological Effects

One of the most significant health risks associated with high levels of manganese in drinking water is neurological effects. Exposure to high levels of manganese has been linked to neurological problems, including tremors, Parkinson’s disease, and other movement disorders. Studies have also found that children exposed to high levels of manganese in drinking water may have lower IQ scores and cognitive impairment.

Respiratory Effects

Exposure to high levels of manganese in drinking water has also been linked to respiratory effects. Manganese can cause lung inflammation when inhaled, leading to coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Long-term exposure to high levels of manganese in drinking water can also cause chronic bronchitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the bronchial tubes.

Gastrointestinal Effects

Excessive levels of manganese can also have gastrointestinal effects. When ingested, it can cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, high levels of manganese in drinking water can lead to liver damage and jaundice.

Skin Effects

If there’s too much manganese in the water you use at home, that can also cause skin effects. It can cause rashes, itching, and redness, and in severe cases, it can cause lesions on the skin.

Reproductive Effects

High levels of manganese in drinking water have been associated with reduced fertility in both men and women. Studies have also linked exposure to high levels of manganese in drinking water to reproductive effects. It can also affect fetal development and increase the risk of congenital disabilities.

Cardiovascular Effects

Cardiovascular issues can be associated with exposure to too much manganese in your home’s water supply. Studies have found that exposure to manganese can increase blood pressure and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Ensure you have your water tested regularly to ensure it meets the recommended limits for manganese. If you are concerned about the manganese levels in your drinking water, contact an Aquarius Water Conditioning water treatment specialist to discuss your options.

Take Action

You can minimize the health risks of manganese in drinking water by contacting Aquarius Water Conditioning. A Kinetico water system might be precisely what you need. You can use our online contact form to schedule an appointment, or you can give us a call at 888-741-9025.