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Lead poisoning can occur from ingesting or inhaling high levels of lead, which can cause symptoms such as irritability, headaches, and anemia. Children are at a greater risk of developmental damage from lead exposure. Lead is found in various sources, including paint, soil, and plumbing pipes. A blood test can determine lead levels, and eliminating the source can reduce levels over time. Seek medical attention if exposed to lead.
Lead is a particularly dangerous toxin if ingested or inhaled. Lead poisoning is the condition that can occur if high levels of lead build up in the body. Symptoms of lead poisoning can be immediate if a single large dose of lead is swallowed or inhaled, but lead poisoning usually occurs slowly over time from repeated exposure to small amounts of lead.
Symptoms of lead poisoning are vast and are symptomatic of other conditions as well. A blood test can determine if there are high levels of lead in a person’s body. Symptoms of lead poisoning include irritability, difficulty sleeping, headaches, reduced sensations, loss of developmental ability in young children, loss of appetite and energy, and anemia. In high doses, lead poisoning can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, muscle weakness, and seizures.
Lead poisoning is a much greater risk for children than for adults. A child’s brain and nervous system are still developing and therefore are at risk of developmental damage from lead. Lead is found in a number of places, some as well known as lead based paint and some not so well known sources. Although a primary source of lead is lead-based paint and was banned in the United States in 1976, it can still exist in older homes and even on painted toys. However, lead also exists in soil, old lead-soldered plumbing pipes, accumulators, and even paint and craft sets made for kids. In 2003, several retailers voluntarily recalled sidewalk chalk due to excessive lead content.
In addition to the symptoms of lead poisoning, there are some risks associated with lead poisoning in children. Reduced IQ, hearing, behavior and attention problems, as well as stunted growth and kidney damage can be the result of increased lead levels. A simple blood test can be done to determine if a person has high levels of lead in their body, and a doctor will provide more information based on the results.
Although minimal traces of lead are found in most people, high levels are of concern to doctors. If higher than normal levels of lead are found, it becomes necessary to determine and eliminate the source(s) of lead. Once the source of lead has been eliminated, lead levels in the body are usually reduced to normal over time. However, any developmental damage from long-term exposure may be permanent.
If you have reason to believe that you or your child has been exposed to lead, contact a doctor for a blood test. You can reduce your exposure to lead by developing an awareness of its sources. If you suspect your home contains lead-based paint, seek professional abatement advice. Have your water tested for lead and use filtered or bottled water for drinking. Insist on practical hygiene and always wash your hands before eating. If you or a family member has been exposed to a single high dose of lead and shows severe symptoms of lead poisoning, call an emergency number or your local poison control center.
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