Lead poisoning
Lead poisoning develops when lead accumulates in the body over months and years Even small amounts of lead can cause serious health problems Children under the age of 6 are at particular risk Their mental and physical development may be stunted by lead In high doses, lead poisoning is fatal
Lead-based paint and old lead-contaminated buildings are common causes of poisoning in children. Other sources include air pollution and the presence of lead in soil and water Adults who frequently touch batteries, work in the construction business or repair cars may also be at increased risk.
Lead poisoning is treatable, but taking small preventative steps can help you and your family.
Lead is a metal that occurs naturally in the earth's crust As a result of mining, fuel extraction and various factory constructions, lead is widespread Lead used to be a component of paint and fuel It is still used in batteries, pipes, pottery, lids, and some cosmetics
Lead in paint The use of lead-based paints in the home, to paint children's toys or to restore furniture, was banned in 1978 Despite this, such paint is still preserved on the walls of old buildings In children, this dye is the cause of poisoning
Water Pipes and Imported Cans Pipes that contain lead release the metal into the water. Lead is also found in cans The use of lead in cans is banned in the United States and some European countries, but lead-tainted cans are still produced in other countries.
Other Sources Lead can sometimes be found:
- Soil Lead particles released from fuel or paint into the soil may remain for years Lead-contaminated soil is still a significant problem in some cities The soil around old buildings often contains lead
- Water Water pipes that contain lead can cause lead contamination of drinking water
- household dust Dust may contain lead from paint or contaminated soil brought in from outside
- Clay items Some ceramic items or porcelain contain lead and may also contaminate food
- Toys Lead is sometimes found in toys and other products
- Traditional cosmetics Traditional cosmetics of some companies (eg Eye pencil) contains lead
At first, lead poisoning is difficult to diagnose, a person may feel healthy but have high levels of lead in their blood. Signs and symptoms do not develop until dangerous levels are reached
Signs of lead poisoning in children In children, signs of lead poisoning include:
- Developmental delay
- Learning problems
- Irritability
- Ingratitude
Signs and symptoms include:
- High blood pressure
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Joint pain
- Muscle pain
- Impaired mental function
- Pain, numbness, decreased sensation
