An unusual medical condition has caught the attention of doctors and the public. Argyria, a rare disorder caused by the accumulation of silver in the body, has left people with a permanent gray or blue-gray skin tone. Though such a transformation might seem like a scene from a science fiction movie, it is very real—and the effects are long-lasting.

In this article, we shall look at the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of argyria. We shall also address its risks, preventive measures, and new research on the condition.

Argyria is a condition resulting from the long-term accumulation of silver in the human body, leading to the permanent discoloration of skin, eyes, and other tissues especially when exposed to sunlight. This condition results primarily from the overexposure to silver particles due to occupation or ingestion of compounds containing silver.

A case that gained much attention was that of an 84-year-old man in Hong Kong, whose ashen color complexion resulted from his exposure to silver. This man had initially been admitted to the hospital upon noticing a change in his skin color. Through further analysis, silver granules were identified within his skin tissues, blood vessels, and sweat glands. His blood tests revealed that his serum silver concentration was 40 times higher than normal, and he was diagnosed with argyria. Although he claimed to have no direct exposure to silver, the case revealed the hidden dangers of silver accumulation in the body.

How Does Silver Accumulate in the Body?

Most frequently, argyria is caused due to the ingestion and inhalation of silver or a compound containing the metal. As the silver particulates enter through the bloodstream in such cases, silver deposits in nearly all tissues- skin, liver, kidneys, lungs, spleen, or even the brain.

The commonest symptom presenting in argyria is, of course when silver accumulates in the skin. Light-exposure to silver triggers a form of photoreduction with the ultraviolet components of sunlight to take on a tinge of bluish or even grayish skin. This has also been implicated in other sites, including those in the fingernails and gums, plus the eyes of some patients who develop this. Internal organs sometimes take on blueish tinges, such as the liver or spleen but only through X-rays or another medical imaging modalities.

Who Is Likely to Get Argyria?

Argyria is currently an infrequent disease, though historically, the prevalence was more pronounced. This is mainly because during the 19th century, most people had intensive exposure to silver. Some common uses of silver during the same period were its application in various industries like mining and processing and as medication. The present leading causes of argyria include:

Ingestion of Colloidal Silver

Colloidal silver is a liquid solution that has tiny particles of silver, which is mostly sold as a dietary supplement. Those who ingest colloidal silver for purported health benefits—used allegedly to boost the immune system to treat everything from diabetes and cancer—risk argyria. The use of colloidal silver has not been supported by scientific research; experts in health also warn consumers from using such.

Work Exposure

People working in silver-related industries like silver mining, manufacturing, or jewelry making. If the workers have an extended exposure to silver particles suspended in the air or deposited on the skin.

Prolonged use of medication that contains silver compounds as a component. An example of such medication is eyedrops or nasal sprays. Silver accumulation in the body may occur with a prolonged duration of medication use.

Genetic predisposition

Some rare genetic factors may predispose a few people to the condition.

Also Read: Meet Kyle Gordy Who Has Fathered 100 Babies: Here Are Surprising Health Benefits Of Sperm Donation

Symptoms of Argyria

The main symptom of argyria is the gradual appearance of bluish-gray or grayish discoloration of the skin, mainly in areas exposed to sunlight. The color change is permanent and may cause psychological distress in most patients. Other symptoms of argyria include:

• As silver builds up in the body, fingernails may darken.
• Dark spots may appear on the skin, especially in skin areas that receive regular exposure to sunlight.
• The whites of the eyes (sclera) turn a bluish-gray color.
• In some cases, argyria patients may report mild symptoms including stomach discomfort, fatigue, or headaches.
• Over time, internal organ damage such as the liver, spleen, and kidneys may occur due to silver buildup; however, these symptoms are not always observable.

The condition is not fatal, but the symptoms may be uncomfortable, and the discoloration is permanent.

How is Argyria Diagnosed?

Argyria is usually established by a case history, medical examination, and laboratory tests. A crucial diagnostic method is to undertake a biopsy on the affected areas of the skin, which, in turn can show silver particles in the tissue. Blood examination can also tell the concentration level of silver inside the blood of the patient after the diagnosis. After establishing this diagnosis, another step is toward the cause or reason behind deposition of silver.

Treatment and Management

Currently, there is no treatment for argyria. The coloration due to the condition is irreversible. However, there are several measures to help manage the appearance of the condition:

• Regular application of sunscreen can prevent the coloration from worsening since exposure to UV rays accelerates the photoreduction process.
• Though not universally successful, some patients have undergone laser therapy to minimize the appearance of the coloration, though success varies.
• Many individuals use makeup to cover the grayish tint of their skin and restore a more natural appearance.
• Some topical treatments, such as 5% hydroquinone, may help lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of the discoloration.

In addition to cosmetic treatments, it is essential for individuals to avoid further exposure to silver or silver-containing compounds to prevent the condition from worsening.

Is Argyria Preventable?

Preventing argyria is largely about avoiding unnecessary exposure to silver. If you are taking dietary supplements or medications that contain silver, consult with your healthcare provider to explore alternative options. People who work with silver should ensure that their workplace adheres to safety regulations, such as the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) exposure limits for silver dust.

Argyria is a rare but serious condition that can have a significant impact on an individual’s appearance and well-being. Although modern exposure to silver is less common than in previous centuries, certain lifestyle choices, such as using colloidal silver as a supplement or working in silver industries, still pose a risk. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and prevention of argyria is key to minimizing its impact on health. Although it has no known cure, precautions and proper remedies can be availed to lessen the impact brought about by the condition.

Argyria an unrecognized cause of cutaneous pigmentation in Indian patients. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2013

ARGYRIA. JAMA Network. 1937

Argyria. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2025

Autism has increased significantly since 2000, particularly in the US, triggering public concern about what might contribute ot its prevalence. In November, Robert F Kennedy Jr, who was selected to lead the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), linked autism to childhood vaccinations. Soon, medical experts jumped on it to discredit his claim. But then many raised this question: if autism is not caused by vaccines, then what causes this neurological disorder?

Research tells us that autism tends to run in families, and a meta-analysis of 7 twin studies claims that 60 to 90% of the risk of autism comes from your genome. If you have a child with autism, you are more likely to have another autistic child. Your other family members are also more likely to have a child with ASD.

Changes in certain genes or your genome increase the risk that a child will develop autism. If a parent carries one or more of these gene changes, they may get passed to a child (even if the parent does not have autism). For some people, a high risk for ASD can be associated with a genetic disorder, such as Rett syndrome or fragile X syndrome. For the majority of autism cases, multiple changes in other regions of your DNA increase the risk of autism spectrum disorder. The majority of these DNA changes do not cause autism by themselves but work in conjunction with many other genes and environmental factors to cause autism.

If you or your child has ASD, we recommend that you explore genetic testing. Genetic testing could show you the genetic cause of you or your child’s autism and reveal any genetic mutations that might be linked to serious co-occurring conditions like epilepsy. Genetic testing can give doctors useful information so they can provide better, more personalized interventions. Read two families' stories on how genomics helped their understanding of autism and receiving personalized healthcare.

What environmental factors are associated with autism?

According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, certain environmental influences may increase autism risk:

• Advanced parental age
• Prenatal exposure to air pollution or certain pesticides
• Maternal obesity, diabetes or immune system disorders
• Extreme prematurity or very low birth weight
• Birth complications leading to periods of oxygen deprivation to the baby’s brain

After growing concerns about the effects of short-form videos on mental health, doctors are now warning of a new and escalating crisis—‘reel-induced eye damage.’ Excessive screen time, particularly binge-watching reels on social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, is leading to a surge in eye disorders across all age groups, with children and young adults being the most affected.

This issue was highlighted by leading ophthalmologists during the ongoing Joint Meeting of the Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology and All India Ophthalmological Society at the Yashobhoomi-India International Convention and Expo Centre on Tuesday.

Asia Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) 2025 Congress president Dr Lalit Verma raised serious concerns about the ‘silent epidemic of digital eye strain’ triggered by excessive screen exposure. “We are witnessing a sharp rise in cases of dry eye syndrome, myopia progression, eye strain, and even early-onset squinting, especially in children who spend hours watching reels,” he stated.

“A student recently visited us with complaints of persistent eye irritation and blurry vision. Upon examination, we found that his eyes were not producing enough tears due to prolonged screen time at home watching reels. He was immediately prescribed eye drops and advised to follow the 20-20-20 rule—taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away,” Dr Verma added.

Reels Capture Your Attention For A Lot Of Time

Dr Harbansh Lal, chairman of the Organising Committee and president of the All India Ophthalmological Society, elaborated on the severity of the issue. He explained that short, engaging reels are designed to capture and retain attention for extended periods.

“However, constant screen fixation reduces blink rates by 50%, leading to dry eye syndrome and accommodation spasms, which make it difficult to shift focus between near and distant objects. Experts warn that if this habit remains unchecked, it could lead to long-term vision problems and even permanent eye strain,” he cautioned.

Dr Lal further emphasized that children who spend hours daily glued to reels are at an increased risk of developing early-onset myopia, which is progressing faster than ever before. Adults, too, are experiencing frequent headaches, migraines, and sleep disorders caused by blue light.

Recent studies indicate that by 2050, over 50% of the world’s population will be myopic, making it the leading cause of irreversible blindness. The increasing screen time has also led to fluctuating lens prescriptions until the age of 30, a shift from the previous norm of 21, Dr. Lal noted.

Research shows a growing number of people, particularly students and working professionals, are struggling with digital eye strain, squinting, and worsening eyesight due to prolonged exposure to high-speed, visually stimulating content. Doctors are also observing a concerning trend of social isolation, mental fatigue, and cognitive overload linked to constant reel consumption.

Dr Samar Basak, president of AIOS and a senior ophthalmologist, highlighted the social and psychological toll of excessive screen time. “We are noticing a pattern where people become so engrossed in reels that they neglect real-world interactions, leading to strained family relationships and a decline in focus on education and work.”

Dr Partha Biswas, senior ophthalmologist and incoming president of AIOS, warned, “The combination of artificial lighting, rapid visual changes, and prolonged near-focus activity overstimulates the eyes, leading to a condition we call ‘Reel Vision Syndrome.’ It’s crucial to address this before it escalates into a full-scale public health crisis.”

To mitigate the harmful effects of excessive reel-watching, ophthalmologists recommend adopting the 20-20-20 rule, increasing blink rates, consciously making an effort to blink more frequently while using screens, reducing screen time, and taking digital detoxes through regular breaks.

With eye disorders on the rise due to unregulated reel consumption, health experts urge parents, educators, and social media users to take immediate preventive measures. “Reels may be short, but their impact on eye health can last a lifetime,” warned Dr. Lal.

Starting on journey of in vitro fertilization (IVF) is a very personal and emotional process. For most couples, it is a hope—a chance to maybe finally be able to achieve their dream of having a family. But what isn't discussed nearly enough is exactly how physically, emotionally, and financially draining this process can be.

Between countless doctor visits, daily hormone injections, unpredictable outcomes, and the immense pressure to succeed, IVF can start to take a serious toll. It’s not just about the body; it affects the mind, relationships, and overall well-being. This is why taking a break—stepping back to breathe and reset—can be an essential part of the process.

But how will you know when it's time to stop? And perhaps more important, how do you handle the emotional burden of deciding? If you find yourself drained, overwhelmed, or wondering if you should continue, know you are not alone. Here's what you need to know about IVF burnout, why it occurs, and how stopping might actually advance you.

For most couples, having children is a dream come true. When natural conception is no longer possible, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is usually the light at the end of the tunnel. Although the progress in fertility treatments has enabled many couples to conceive, the process is not an easy one. IVF is a time-consuming, costly, and emotionally draining process that demands an unrelenting commitment. The endless cycle of doctor visits, hormone shots, procedures, and waiting can be draining on both partners.

Although promising, IVF is not an assured route to success. Failed cycles, cycles of repeated disappointments, and uncertainty about the process can result in severe emotional distress. Most couples feel feelings of shame, guilt, frustration, and anxiety, so it is vital to know when a break is necessary.

What is IVF Burnout and Why Does It Happen?

Dr. Vandana Ramanathan, Fertility Consultant at GarbhaGudi IVF Centre, describes IVF burnout as a condition of mental and physical fatigue resulting from extended treatment. "This fatigue can be caused by repeated failed cycles, long procedures, and uncertainty of results," she adds.

Unlike most other medical treatments, IVF has a strong emotional component. Each cycle costs the couple considerable amounts of financial, physical, and emotional capital, often creating unbearable pressure on their part. Not only is there medical stress involved, but social pressures and a lack of support also add to the experience and lead to burnout.

Recognizing the Signs of IVF Burnout

Burnout also appears in different ways to every person, based on their stress-coping mechanisms. The symptoms can be divided into mental and physical symptoms:

Mental Signs:

• Enduring depression and anxiety
• Irregular mood swings and heightened irritability
• Lack of motivation and interest in daily tasks
• Social isolation and withdrawal

Physical Signs:

• Chronic fatigue and exhaustion
• Sleep disturbances, including insomnia
• Gastrointestinal disturbances and changes in appetite
• Headaches and body aches occurring frequently
• Panic attacks and palpitations
• Hypertension and blood sugar fluctuations caused by stress

When Do You Need to Take a Break?

It's always hard to admit that you need a break when you've invested so much in the journey. But taking a step back doesn't translate to quitting—it's about taking care of yourself as a whole. Dr. Ramanathan says that taking a break doesn't lower the success rate of IVF procedures. Moreover, it can be helpful. If the patient is not ready physically or psychologically for the next cycle, chances for success may be affected as well. We usually suggest taking a break for several months before resuming," she elaborates.

Some couples realize this on their own, seeing that the process is exhausting them. Others might require their doctor to advise them. Either case, a break can last anywhere from a month to six months, depending on the couple's state of mind. The objective is to restore emotional balance and make sure that both partners are mentally ready for the next step in treatment.

How to Manage IVF Burnout and Gain Emotional Balance?

Prioritizing Self-Care

Self-care is one of the most important things about breaking the cycle of IVF burnout. Stress can be controlled by practicing yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises. "The patients need to engage in relaxation activities that allow them to feel in control of their emotions," states Dr. Ramanathan.

Having a Balanced Diet

IVF processes use high doses of medication, and therefore adequate nutrition is key. A well-balanced diet full of vitamins, minerals, and hydration benefits the body throughout the process and also aids in stress management.

Adequate Sleep

Sleep tends to be interfered with because of stress, but sleep is crucial to well-being. A minimum of six to eight hours of rest will help the body heal.

Adding Exercise

Physical activity can serve as an excellent stress reliever. Whether it’s walking, yoga, or any preferred form of exercise, staying active for at least an hour a day can help balance hormones and improve mental health.

Open Communication

IVF is not only a physical procedure—it's emotional too. Couples must be open with one another and their physician. Talking about fears, challenges, and expectations can ease emotional burdens. "If couples feel they cannot manage the stress themselves, professional counseling can be very helpful," says Dr. Ramanathan.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Knowing that IVF is a hard process with setbacks is the bottom line. Different people react in different ways to treatment, and outcomes can differ. Acknowledge these unknowns and be realistic about expectations in order not to burn out.

Why Taking a Break is Not Giving Up?

Time off from IVF is not failure. Rather, it is a chance to rest, recharge, and come back to the process with renewed vigor. "Patients who take a break often return feeling more optimistic and emotionally prepared," Dr. Ramanathan reports.

If you find it too much, taking a break for a while can be the best option for your physical and mental health. When things are ready, you can go back to the process with a new mind and a better attitude.