Lead Poisoning

Lead Poisoning

Who is at the greatest risk of being exposed to lead?

Children less than six years of age who spend time in homes built before 1978---with chipping or peeling paint---are at greatest risk. Adults who work with lead on the job are also at high risk and can bring lead home on their clothes and expose their children.

How do you get lead poisoning?

Lead enters your body each time you inhale fumes or dust, or swallow something that contains lead. Your body does not have a use for lead. If you are exposed to small amounts of lead, your body will naturally get rid of it. Larger amounts accumulate in your body and cause poisoning.

Why be concerned about lead poisoning?
Possible effects of lead poisoning:

lowered IQ
decreased hand-eye coordination
shortened attention span
aggressive behavior
reading and other disabilities
very high levels can result in death

What are common sources of lead in the home?

Lead based paint, lead in dust, soil, foods, and water

Countryside Public Health

What are some additional sources of lead?

Imported candies, crayons, toys, pool cue chalk, ceramics/pottery, silver jewelry, brass/pewter decorations or jewelry.

What are the symptoms of lead poisoning?

Many times there are no symptoms of lead poisoning. This is one of the reasons it is so important to have your child tested. If symptoms of lead poisoning do show up, they can also be symptoms of a number of other common illnesses as well.

These symptoms can include:

Decreased appetite
Fatigue
Irritability
Difficulty concentrating
Tremors
Headaches
Abdominal pain
Vomiting
Constipation
Weight loss

How can I have my child tested?

Your child can be tested at your medical clinic as part of a Child and Teen Checkup, a well child exam, or sick visit. Your child will be tested by doing either a finger stick or taking blood from a vein. Your physician can determine if your child has been exposed to lead. If your child has a normal test, no follow-up will be needed. It is recommended that children be tested at 12 and 24 months of age.

What if my child is lead poisoned?

If your child has higher lead levels, a team will work with you. This team consists of:

You - the parent or caregiver.
Your physician - to provide treatment, if needed.
Minnesota Department of Health - to provide an in home assessment to find the source of the lead and abatement, if needed.
Countryside Public Health - to provide education and support.

For more information visit the MN Department of Health lead web site: http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/eh/lead/index.html

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