What are the symptoms of lead poisoning (plumbism)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 28, 2025 • View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

Lead toxicity symptoms include abdominal pain, constipation, headaches, irritability, memory problems, and fatigue in adults, while children may experience developmental delays, learning difficulties, irritability, loss of appetite, weight loss, sluggishness, and abdominal pain, as stated in the study by 1. Severe cases can present with seizures, paralysis, coma, and even death. Early symptoms are often subtle and nonspecific, resembling other conditions. Lead poisoning occurs when lead builds up in the body over time, interfering with normal cellular function, particularly affecting the nervous system, bone marrow, and kidneys. The most recent and highest quality study, 1, provides guidance on the management of childhood lead exposure and poisoning, emphasizing the importance of primary prevention and reducing or eliminating the sources of lead in the environment of children. Some key points to consider when managing lead exposure include:

  • Identifying and removing lead sources, especially in older homes with lead paint or plumbing
  • Providing nutritional counseling related to calcium and iron
  • Screening for iron sufficiency with adequate laboratory testing
  • Performing structured developmental screening evaluations at child health maintenance visits
  • Considering hospitalization or chelation therapy for severe cases, as recommended in the study by 1 It is essential to note that no effective treatments can ameliorate the permanent developmental effects of lead toxicity, as stated in the study by 1. Therefore, prevention is crucial, and pediatricians should be aware of measures to reduce the toxic effects of lead on children, including the promulgation of regulations to screen or test older housing units for lead hazards. Additionally, the study by 1 highlights common sources of lead exposure, such as house paint used before 1978, toys and furniture painted before 1976, and lead bullets, fishing sinkers, and certain weights. Overall, the management of lead exposure requires a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, identification, and treatment, as well as ongoing monitoring and evaluation, as emphasized in the study by 1.

References

1
Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Related Questions

What is the significance of a mildly elevated Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV)?
What is the role of Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) in the treatment of fibromyalgia?
What causes normal Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC), normal Unbound Iron-Binding Capacity (UIBC), normal iron saturation, elevated iron level, and low ferritin level?
What etiologies cause vertigo (dizziness) when arms are elevated above the head?
How does carbamazepine (anticonvulsant medication) cause Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH)?
Who repairs aortic valves?

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.

Ask Question