Lead Poisoning Symptoms
Chronic lead exposure may cause the following symptoms.
General physical symptoms in children and adults (usually seen when lead poisoning levels are severe)
Behavioral symptoms in children
Severe symptoms of acute lead poisoning can include seizures, unconsciousness, paralysis, or swelling in the brain. However, exposure to such a high level of lead is not common.1 If you experience these symptoms, seek emergency medical care.
Lead poisoning usually does not cause symptoms until the level of lead in your blood is very high. Most lead poisoning comes from low levels of exposure over a long period of time. The major organ systems affected are the central nervous system, gastrointestinal (digestive) tract, and the renal system (urinary tract).
Stomachaches, cramping, constipation, or diarrhea
Nausea, vomiting
Persistent, unexplained fatigue
Headache
Muscle weakness
Higher rates of tooth decay
Children with chronic low blood lead levels who may not have obvious symptoms of lead poisoning may have learning problems and be smaller in size than children their age who do not have low to moderate levels of lead poisoning. A recent study showed that declines in IQ can even be seen in children with blood lead concentrations below 10 micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood (10 mcg/dL), the level of concern defined by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization.11 Chronic exposure to lead may also cause behavioral problems in these children.
Irritability or aggressiveness
Hyperactivity, being easily distracted, impulsiveness
Learning problems
Lack of interest in play
Loss of appetite
Behavioral symptoms in adults
Irritability
Unexplained changes in mood or personality
Changes in sleep patterns
Inability to concentrate
Memory loss
Neurological symptoms (caused by effects of lead on the nervous system)
Poor coordination
Weakness in hands and feet
Headaches
Seizures
Paralysis
Coma
Diagnosing lead poisoning can be difficult because many other conditions cause similar symptoms.
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