Are you missing obvious signs of lead poisoning?

Whether it’s recalled applesauce pouches, pre-packaged children’s lunches or the manufacturing of your favorite reusable water bottle, you most likely have seen headlines about lead exposure circulating online. You may wonder if you’re at risk for lead poisoning and what symptoms should prompt you to visit a medical professional.

It’s typically easier to spot more severe symptoms of lead poisoning that tend to occur with higher concentrations of lead in the blood. This can include headaches, tremors, weight loss, vomiting, constipation, confusion and seizures.

However, a study found that about one-third of childhood lead poisoning cases are missed nationwide.

“Initial symptoms of lead poisoning can be as nonspecific as fatigue, irritability, muscle aches and stomach pain,” explains Dr. Payal Parikh, a family medicine physician with Advocate Health Care. “Young children with low concentrations of lead can actually show no symptoms at all.”

Other risk factors can also contribute to a child’s level of exposure, such as their tendency to place their hands in their mouth.

“Children are certainly one of the more vulnerable populations when it comes to lead poisoning, particularly under the age of 5. At this age, their brain is rapidly developing and is at higher risk of irreversible effects,” says Dr. Parikh.

For this reason, pediatricians regularly screen young children for lead exposure from 6 months to 5 years old. Results of this assessment will determine whether a blood lead level testing is needed. Certain pediatric populations may receive this testing at the ages of 1 and 2 years old due to increased risk factors.

Adults are typically more vulnerable based on their line of work. Some occupations, including construction workers, jewelers and auto mechanics, see an increased risk of both lead toxicity and poisoning.

“Although there are no specific screening recommendations for adults with high-risk occupations, if you have a job with frequent lead exposure, it is important to be aware of the initial signs and symptoms of lead poisoning,” explains Dr. Parikh. “See your doctor immediately for further evaluation if you experience any of them.”

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