Chronic (long-term exposure): Inhalation (breathing it in, as from fillings) of mercury vapors causes
mercurialism. Findings are extremely variable and include tremors (shakes), salivation (excess saliva), stomatitis (inflammation of the mouth), loosening of the teeth, blue lines on the gums (tattoos), pain and numbness in the extremities (multiple sclerosis symptoms), nephritis (inflammation of the kidney), diarrhea, anxiety, headache, weight loss, anorexia, mental depression, insomnia (sleeplessness), irritability, instability, hallucinations, and evidence of mental deterioration (Alzheimer-like symptoms).