Zinc, Blood Test

Zinc plays an important role in a wide spectrum of health aspects such as: metabolism on the cellular level, the immune system, wound and/or burn healing, and DNA and protein synthesis. This mineral is also believed to exhibit antioxidant properties protecting against aging. Severe zinc deficiency is a leading cause of death in underdeveloped countries, but even marginally low zinc levels can have a wide array of impacts on your health.

The zinc blood test is used to monitor exposure to zinc, evaluate suspected nutritional inadequacy, cases of diabetes or delayed wound healing; growth retardation; or to follow therapies like oral zinc therapy used in Wilson's disease.

Common items that may cause zinc toxicity include:

• Cleaner and solvents
• Rust removing agents
• Paints and varnishes

High zinc levels can result in symptoms like:

• Chest pain
• Nausea and severe abdominal pain
• Seizures
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Coughing and respiratory tract irritation
• Fatigue/Lethargy
• Muscle pain
• Nausea
• Fever
• Headache

Deficient zinc levels can lead to:

• Delay in growth
• Impaired wound healing
• Skin lesions/Dry, scaling skin
• Altered senses of sight, smell and taste
• Impaired immune system
• Hair loss/Alopecia
• Diarrhea
• Impaired testosterone production
• Seizures
• Heart arrhythmia
• Diarrhea

Major dietary zinc sources include:

• Shellfish, especially oysters
• Beef and pork
• Poultry
• Legumes
• Dairy products
• Almonds and cashews

Zinc deficiency can be more prevalent in people who:

• Are gastrointestinal surgery patients
• Have gastrointestinal disorders like celiac or Crohn's disease
• Have Wilson's disease
• Are diabetic
• Are vegan or vegetarian
• Have sickle cell anemia
• Individuals who have been exposed to mercury
• Have chronic liver or kidney disease