What effect do mercury salts primarily have on the body?

Mercury salts are known to have a significant impact on the body's organs, particularly the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys. When mercury enters the body, it can disrupt normal cellular functions and lead to various toxic effects. The gastrointestinal tract can be affected because mercury can cause irritation and damage to the mucous membranes, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Moreover, the kidneys are particularly vulnerable to mercury exposure. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, and mercury can accumulate in the renal tissues, leading to nephrotoxicity, which may result in kidney dysfunction and damage over time. This accumulation can disrupt the kidney's filtering processes, potentially resulting in fluid and electrolyte imbalances.

While mercury exposure can also have significant neurological effects, the primary acute effects are more associated with the gastrointestinal tract and renal impairment. The other options suggest effects that are either not the primary impact of mercury salts or are contrary to the known toxicological profiles associated with mercury compounds.