Lead poisoning affects young children and pregnant women most severely, and the damage can last the rest of that person’s life. There is no cure for lead poisoning, though some treatment options are available. If you suspect you or your child is suffering from lead poisoning, consult your doctor immediately and request a test. The Toledo Lucas County Health Department also performs lead testing in our community.
Ohio law requires all children age 6 and under in high-risk zip codes, which cover all of Toledo, to be tested for lead poisoning. Most lead poisoning goes undetected and untreated because a person is asymptomatic or symptoms are attributed to other causes. Therefore, the best way to know if you or your child is lead poisoned is to get a test. There is no safe level of lead in the bloodstream.
Possible Signs and Symptoms in Children:
- Developmental delay
- Learning difficulties
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Sluggishness and fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Hearing loss
- Seizures
- Eating things, such as paint chips, that aren’t food (pica)
