Lead is a dangerous substance, especially for children. Whether it comes from lead paint on toys, in wall paint, or when it is present in water, lead can be extremely dangerous. Lead poisoning has many causes, and it has lasting effects on development, especially for children under the age of 6. When it comes to any ailment it is important to understand the causes, symptoms, and signs of the disease. In this article, we will discuss lead poisoning, its causes, and its symptoms. If you are worried that you or someone you know may have lead poisoning, consult a physician or medical professional.
What Is Lead Poisoning?
Lead poisoning is what happens when too much lead accumulates in the body. This can happen over the course of months or years. Lead poisoning can be fatal at high enough levels, and it can be difficult to detect. Symptoms of lead poisoning rarely show up until the levels of lead in the bloodstream are already at an unhealthy level.
What Causes Lead Poisoning?
Lead poisoning is caused when too much lead gets into the body. This lead most likely arrives because of lead paint, lead in dust particles, or because of lead in water supplies. Lead-based paint was used commonly for decades in America, and many homes still have lead paint. Although lead paint was banned, there are no regulations that force homeowners to remove lead paint from their walls.
Symptoms of Lead Poisoning in Children
Lead poisoning is most dangerous for developing children, that is why it is important to understand the symptoms of poisoning most often expressed with kids.
- Developmental delay
- Learning difficulties
- Hearing loss
- Weight loss & Loss of Appetite
- Abnormal Tiredness, Sluggishness, or fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Irritability
- Seizures
Another sign of lead poisoning is your young child eating things that are not food like chipped paint.
Symptoms of Lead Poisoning in Adults
Symptoms for adults are slightly different than in young children. Signs for adults may include:
- High blood pressure
- Joint and muscle pain
- Difficulties with memory or concentration
- Headaches and Migraines
- Abdominal pain
- Issues with Frequently Changing Mood or Mood disorders
- Reduced sperm count in Men
- Miscarriage, stillbirth or premature birth in pregnant women
Although lead poisoning is not as dangerous for adults as it is for children, too much lead can still be fatal for adults. If you experience symptoms or believe there may be lead in your home you should contact your medical provider for testing. Parents should also consider getting their homes tested for lead paint by a local paint testing company.
Get Lead Paint Testing in Massachusetts
For Massachusetts families, DCM Environmental provides unbiased lead paint testing. Because we do not offer or work with other companies that offer lead paint removal, you can rest assured that our findings are always trustworthy. If you would like to have your home or business tested for lead paint, contact us to schedule an appointment.
