Could Your Child Have Lead Poisoning?

By Staff Writer

According to the Centers of Disease Control (CDC), 4 million households have children who are exposed to high levels of lead.  Lead can be extremely dangerous and is often found in many household items despite state and federal regulations.

How can you know if your child has possible lead poisoning?

First, it’s important to understand how lead poisoning occurs.  Basically, lead is a highly toxic metal that does not break down in the environment.  It can be transferred to a human after they have touched an item containing lead and they put their hands near their mouth, or by putting the lead item in their mouth. It can also be inhaled as a product in the air.

Below are some common items where lead can be found.

• Water – homes built before 1975 may have lead in their pipes.
• Paint – If your home was built and painted before 1978, it’s highly possibly the walls with paint have lead in them
• Jewelry – As late as 2012, the state of California found high traceable amounts of lead in jewelry.  It is highly possible that today costume jewelry can contain lead.
• Occupational and Residential Exposure – if someone in your household works in an environment where lead is present, it can be brought home on their clothes.  Also, if you live near a place where there are significant amounts of lead, you can be exposed.
• Toys – In 2009, it was discovered that multiple toys had lead in them.  Therefore if your child has older toys, it is a good idea to be cautious. Here is a great consumer report regarding this.
• Household goods – Check to make certain your child is not eating off of lead glazed ceramic plates and cups.

What are symptoms of Lead Poisoning?

If you begin to notice extreme issues with gastric symptoms, intracranial symptoms or you notice your child has often put non-food items in their mouths, you may want to have them checked by a health care provider.

What can occur if my child has been exposed to lead poisoning?

A variety of issues can occur including kidney failure, anemia, hearing damage, behavioral problems, learning disabilities, joint and muscle weakness, organ failure, speech problems, nervous system damage or brain damage or even death.

What can I do if I think my child has been exposed?

Immediately have them checked out by a health care provider and express your concerns for lead poisoning.  Also, you can have items checked in your home as well.

For more guidance and information regarding lead poisoning, refer to our knowledge center article.

And if you feel your child has been a victim of lead poisoning, contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your case today.

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