LEAD POISONING - WatsonsHealth

LEAD POISONING

Overview & Facts

Lead poisoning happens when there is accumulation of lead in the body gradually within months or years. Indeed, even little amounts of lead can cause medical issues. Children who are younger than 6 years are particularly defenceless against lead poisoning, which can seriously affect mental and physical growth. At abnormal levels, lead poisoning can be lethal.

Lead-containing paint and lead-contaminated residue in buildings are the most widely recognized sources of lead poisoning in kids. Other sources include air, water and soil. Individuals who work with batteries, does home remodeling or work in auto repair shops additionally may be exposed to lead.

There is treatment for lead poisoning, however avoiding potential risks can help ensure you and

Your family against lead poisoning before damage is done.

Types & Symptoms

Lead poisoning in children may have the following symptoms:

  • Developmental delay
  • Learning difficulties
  • Irritability
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weight loss
  • Sluggishness and fatigue
  • Abdominal pain
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Hearing loss
  • Seizures
  • Eating things, such as paint chips, that aren’t food (pica)

Lead poisoning symptoms in newborns due to exposure in the womb include the following:

  • Premature birth
  • Lower birth weight
  • Have slowed growth

Lead poisoning symptoms in adults include the following:

  • High blood pressure
  • Joint and muscle pain
  • Difficulties with memory or concentration
  • Headache
  • Abdominal pain
  • Mood disorders
  • Reduced sperm count and abnormal sperm
  • Miscarriage, stillbirth or premature birth in pregnant women

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Your kid’s doctor may recommend that your kid be tested for lead levels during check-ups, especially if you are living in old homes.

Lead testing is done through a simple blood test that detects lead in micrograms per decilitre (mcg/dL). A level of 5 mcg/dL is considered unsafe for children. Children with very high levels at  45 mcg/dL or higher should be treated.

 

TREATMENT

The initial stage in treating lead poisoning is to remove the source of the poisoning. If you cannot expel lead from your surroundings, you may decrease the probability that it will cause issues. Old lead paint can be sealed in.

Higher lead levels may involve the following treatments:

  • Chelation therapy
  • EDTA chelation therapy

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