Lead poisoning

Definition

Poisoning from an overdose of lead.

Poisonous Ingredient

• lead
  

Where Found

• pottery glaze
  
• some paints
  
• storage batteries
  
• some solders
  
• some toys
  

Note: This list may not be all inclusive.

Symptoms

• body as a whole
  o tremor
  o twitching
  o convulsions
  o muscle soreness
  o fatigue
  o weakness
  o joint pain
  o incoordination
  
• eyes, ears, nose, and throat
  o visual abnormalities
  
• gastrointestinal
  o loss of appetite
  o weight loss
  o constipation
  o nausea and vomiting
  o abdominal pain
  
• heart and blood vessels
  o high blood pressure
  
• nervous system
  o agitation
  o coma
  o hallucinations
  o lack of desire to do anything
  o irritable
  o uncooperative
  o headache
  o sleeping difficulty
  o confusion
  

Before Calling Emergency

Determine the following:

• the patient's age, weight, and condition
  
• the name of the product (ingredients and strengths if known)
  
• the time it was swallowed
  
• the amount swallowed
  

Poison Control, or a local emergency number

If you suspect possible lead poisoning, call 1-800-222-1222 anywhere in the United States. This national hotline number will let you talk to experts in poisoning. They will give you further instructions.

This is a free and confidential service. All local poison control centers in the U.S. use this national number. You should call if you have any questions about poisoning or poison prevention. It does NOT need to be an emergency. You can call for any reason, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.