| Excess of fluorine leads to the condition known as
fluorosis. It is the excessive deposition of fluorine in the bones and teeth. Causes
Fluorosis may occur in areas where the fluorine content of water is very high.
Signs and symptoms
Initially there is stiffness and pain in the spine. Motor system involvement produces
weakness, spasticity of the lower limbs, wasting of the distal muscles in the hand. In
endemic cases, hormonal changes occur. The deciduous teeth are more easily affected. In
the spinal cord, the bones may be affected due to the fusion of the vertebrae.
Prevention and treatment
There is no specific treatment; supply of water with low fluoride content is the only
prophylactic measure.
Fluoride
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