Lead Poisoning Symptoms in Children

Lead poisoning is a dangerous condition that is difficult to detect. People with high levels of lead poisoning can seem healthy even though they aren't. The majority of lead poisoning symptoms do not show up until extremely high levels of lead are in the blood. There are various ways children can be contaminated as well many symptoms of contamination.

Physical Symptoms of High Levels

• Physical symptoms of high levels of lead poisoning include stomach aches characterized by vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, cramping and constipation. Children may also experience weight loss, headaches, muscle weakness and fatigue.

Symptoms of Lower Levels

• Children with lower levels of lead poisoning may not exhibit all of the physical symptoms of high level lead poisoning. They may however be smaller in size than other children their age, have learning problems and may experience a decline in IQ.

Behavioral Symptoms

• Behavioral symptoms of lead poisoning include hyperactivity, learning difficulties, a decrease in interest in playing, irritability, lack of appetite, memory problems, delayed reflexes and aggressiveness.

Prevention

• Have your child tested by your doctor annually for the first three years of their life, and after your home goes through any renovation. Have your home evaluated to see if there is any lead paint hazard, if your home was built before 1978.
  Have an EPA professional evaluate your yard especially if your children spend a lot of time outside playing in the dirt. Make sure your children wear shoes outside, clean off their toys when they are done, and cover the ground with sand or mulch if your dirt contains higher levels of lead.

What to do

• Take your child to the doctor immediately if your child exhibits any symptoms or if they have been exposed to high levels of lead. Your doctor will test your child to see what level of lead is in the blood. The pediatrician will give you advice on how to lower lead levels if tests reveal an above normal rating. He will provide you with a prescription if it needs to be treated. He will call the health department if the levels are extremely high and they will inspect your home and help you discover the source of the lead.