Prevent Lead Poisoning at Home
April 30, 2024
Launch the media gallery 1 playerLead is an unsafe metal used in many types of products and materials, including:
- Paint
- Old water pipes
- Vinyl
- Mini-Blinds
- Leaded Crystal
- Dishware
- Pottery Coatings
- Certain children’s toys made outside of the U.S.
Is Your Child at Risk?
Lead is a bigger problem when children are exposed to it more often. Since their bodies are not fully developed, lead poisoning can cause brain, liver, and kidney damage, as well as learning or behavior problems, lowered intellect (IQ), and hearing loss. Most children with lead poisoning do not show any outward signs unless blood lead levels become 5 ug/dl (micrograms per deciliter) or more.
Some signs of poisoning are:
- Headaches
- Stomach Pain
- Nausea
- Tiredness
- Irritability
- Restlessness
In addition, lead, stored in the bones of a pregnant adult who has been exposed to lead over a long period of time, can be released into the adult's bloodstream and passed to their developing baby. Along with the other harm and problems mentioned above, this exposure can cause the baby to be born either too early or too small. At worst, a miscarriage may result.
How to Prevent Lead Poisoning at Home
The best way to protect your children from lead poisoning is to prevent lead exposure before it can happen by removing lead hazards from the environment. Otherwise, blood lead testing and follow-up care and referral is essential for a child who may have already been exposed to lead. Eating foods with iron, calcium and vitamin C may also help keep lead out of the body.
South Heartland is dedicated to help prevent lead poisoning throughout the district. If you feel you or your child may be at risk for lead poisoning, please contact South Heartland today!