Lead paint poisoning is very dangerous, especially for children who are most at risk. Lead paint most often comes form peeling lead-based paint, lead dust and residential soil that has been contaminated with lead paint and lead dust. Even though lead paint, the main cause of lead dust and residue, is no longer used, if you live in an older home or work in an old building, you and your children are most at risk for lead paint poisoning.
History
Lead poisoning was first recognized around 200 B.C. when Nicander of Colophon wrote about lead-induced anemia and colic. The disease gout was often diagnosed in the affluent in Rome, which could have resulted from lead cups and bowls. Lead was also used to make makeup and sugar products during this time.
Significance
It is important to know recognize signs of lead poisoning to get proper care for the affected persons.
Symptoms
Lead poisoning symptoms can mimic symptoms from other illnesses, but awareness of all of the symptoms will help you to recognize the disease. They include stomach upset ranging from nausea to stomach pain to constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite and weight loss; changes in the mouth such as a bluish line along the gums (most common in adults) and a metallic taste in the mouth; and behavioral changes such as irritability, lethargy, hyperactivity and an inability to sleep.
Lead poisoning can cause pain in the body including chest pains and headaches. Extreme lead paint poisoning can result in seizures, coma and even death. It is important to be aware of possible early symptoms and not allow it to get this far.
Identification
If experience a combination of the above symptoms and if you or anyone close to you has been exposed to lead dust or peeling paint from an old home or building (1970s or older), then there is a distinct possibility that you could have lead poisoning.
Prevention/Solution
If you do live in a home that could cause lead poisoning, there are steps you can take to keep yourself and your children healthy. You can wash children's toys often to keep them from ingesting lead dust. You can mop floors and windowsills with a damp cloth regularly. You can repair any peeling paint. You can also eat high-calcium foods to protect your body from lead. If you have questions about lead and prevention, you can contact the Environmental Protection Agency.
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