Understanding Lead Poisoning Facts
A personal injury attorney might be a good person to call if you or a loved one experience lead poisoning. This type of poisoning is generally due to long-term exposure. In many cases, it takes months or years for the effects to be visible. In addition, those most vulnerable to this poisoning are kids under six, but anyone can experience symptoms. A significant impact on physical and mental development is possible for children exposed to lead. It can be fatal at high doses.
Brass plumbing fixtures, lead paint and copper pipes that are lead soldered are the most common causes of this poisoning in the United States. Other sources of lead include:
- Pottery
- Certain cosmetics
- Lead bullets
- Certain toys produced abroad
- Folk and herbal remedies
- Mining, battery manufacturing, and certain other occupations
Symptoms of Lead Poisoning
The symptoms can be significant for those with high levels of lead in their bodies. The symptoms adults and children experience can differ. It can be found in household dust and soil.
In children, the symptoms can include:
- Learning difficulties or developmental delay
- Weight loss and appetite loss
- Fatigue and sluggishness
- Eating strange things that are not food items
- Abdominal pain, constipation, vomiting
- Irritability
- Seizures and hearing loss
The symptoms differ a little in adults with lead poisoning. They might include:
- High blood pressure
- Concentration and memory difficulties
- Abdominal pain
- Fertility and conception problems
- Muscle and joint pain
- Headache
- Mood disorders
Possible Lead Poisoning Complications
Several potentially serious complications can result from lead poisoning. Brain development issues that are irreversible are the biggest concerns for children. Nervous system and kidney damage can occur as a result of lead exposure. With exposure to very high levels of lead, a person could experience unconsciousness, seizures, and death.
Contacting a Personal Injury Lawyer for Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning is serious and might lead to lifelong medical issues. If you believe that the lead poisoning you or a loved one experienced is the result of negligence, you might consider contacting a personal injury lawyer to discuss the facts associated with the injury to see if there is legal recourse.