Lead Poisoning
Lead Poisoning Causes
The cause of lead poisoning found in several locations in the environment such as soil, water, lead paint, household dust can contain lead from paint chips or soil brought in from outside. Some imported canned foods, and traditional remedies and cosmetics some cases of lead poisoning have been traced to the use of certain ayurvedic medications, traditional medicines from India and other South Asian countries that may contain lead.
Lead Poisoning Definition
Lead poisoning is a result of exposure to lead in the environment. Even thou lead is no longer used in paints, gasoline, water pipes and other products, some lead-based products still exist and may pose a health hazard.
Lead Poisoning Diagnosis
Doctors use a blood test to detect lead poisoning. A few blood sample is taken from a finger prick or from a vein. Lead stages in the blood are measured in micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL). The crucial level is 10 mcg/dL or higher a guideline set by the CDC.
Lead Poisoning Symptoms and Signs
The signs and symptoms of lead poisoning in children are nonspecific and may include: Irritability, Loss of appetite, Weight loss, Sluggishness, Abdominal pain. While for adults symptoms are: Pain, numbness or tingling of the extremities, Muscular weakness, Headache, Abdominal pain, Memory loss.
Lead Poisoning Treatment
The primary treatment for mild lead poisoning is to stop the exposure. Removal of the source of lead is critical in reducing blood lead levels.