The Dangers of Lead Poisoning

Although lead has been removed from gasoline and paint for many years, lead poisoning still exists and poses a serious health threat. Hiding out in old paint and other older products, lead is released as these products begin to disintegrate over time. While the United States has been vigilant about removing lead from our products, other countries still use lead-based materials. Although these products were not created in the United States, they are shipped here from various other countries. An example of this problem is the recent recall of various toys which contained lead in the paint.

Lead poisoning, also known as saturnism, plumbism, or painter’s colic, is a medical condition caused by increased lead levels in the blood. Over time, this elevated level of lead can cause irreversible neurological damage as well as renal disease, cardiovascular problems, and reproductive toxicity.

The symptoms of lead poisoning may include:

• Reduced cognitive abilities
• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Irritability
• Insomnia
• Excessive lethargy
• Excessive hyperactivity

A symptom that may be seen in adults is the appearance of a thin, bluish line along the gums, known as Burton’s line. This line does not appear in children, however, making it more difficult to spot the symptoms of lead poisoning.

Lead poisoning affects the peripheral and central nervous systems. If small children are exposed to high levels of lead, they may develop learning disabilities. In some cases, children may be exposed to lead through old paint inside of your house. While parents can be careful to ensure that products containing lead to not enter their home, larger action is required through public policy to help ensure the safety of the products that make it into the US.

If you have been affected by lead poisoning due to the presence of lead in a product, contact the Waukesha lead poisoning lawyers of Habush, Habush, & Rottier at 1-800-559-5599 to schedule your free initial consultation.