What Are The Symptoms of Lead Poisoning?
There are many signs and symptoms of lead poisoning. Some of these include pain and cramping of your stomach area, headaches, constipation, sleeping issues, lack of appetite, fatigue or tiredness, memory loss, and even sudden aggressive behavior. Severe lead poisoning can also lead to vomiting, weakness, loss of balance, seizures, comas, and confusion. If you suspect that you or someone you know has lead poisoning, immediately call 911 and get to an emergency room. You can also call a poison control hotline to speak to an expert about symptoms.
What Is Lead Poisoning?
Lead is a type of metal that is extremely toxic to humans. Lead was often found in paints until the late 1970’s in the United States, and may very well still be on your walls if you live in an old house or apartment. Lead can also be found in toys, art supplies, dust, and gasoline in some places outside the United States. Lead poison usually slowly happens to a person over a long period of time, rarely it happens after only being exposed to lead once. Being exposed many times to small quantities of lead can begin to give you one or many of the symptoms listed above. Lead poisoning is most harmful to children whose brains are still developing, and can stunt a child’s development for life.
How Do You Get Lead Poisoning?
Lead poisoning is caused by either ingesting or inhaling lead. Lead has no smell or taste and in small quantities, it can’t be seen by the naked human eye. As noted above, lead used to be an ingredient in wall paint as recently as 1978, when it was banned in consumer products in the United States. Lead also used to be found in gasoline in the United States, but gas is now “unleaded” as you may have noticed on gas station pumps. Children are the most at risk for lead poisoning because they put toys and things in their mouth so often, so be sure that your child’s toys aren’t made with lead paint from a different country. Lead paint that chips off walls and contaminates dust can be extremely dangerous to children and adults alike. If you have concerns about lead paint in your home or building, contact DCM Environmental today.
How Do Doctors Know If You Have Lead Poisoning?
Lead poisoning is diagnosed using a blood test. If doctors believe you may have lead poisoning, they may want to run additional tests like x-rays, additional blood tests, and biopsies. If you suspect you may have lead poisoning, please see a doctor immediately.
Do You Have More Questions About Lead Poisoning?
If you have more questions about lead poisoning or would like to schedule a lead paint test for your home or commercial property please contact DCM Environmental today.
