Symptoms of Lead Poisoning

Lead poisoning may be a threat to your health if you live, work or play in an area with lead paint or are exposed to substances containing lead. Since lead was used in solder for water pipes and in gasoline and can settle into dirt, you may not even know that you have been exposed to it. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine, symptoms of lead poisoning include poor growth and learning disabilities.

Digestive Problems

• Children with lead poisoning may show symptoms such as loss of appetite, vomiting, constipation and weight loss or failure to thrive.

Fatigue

• Fatigue is a symptom of lead poisoning in children and adults and may be a persistent condition that affects performance at work or school.

Learning Disorders

• Children may develop learning disorders and behavioral problems as a result of lead poisoning. These disabilities may last into adulthood.

Mood Disorders

• Lead poisoning may cause mood disorders in adults and children, including irritability, social withdrawal and depression.

Pain

• Both children and adults may experience abdominal pain and pain in the fingers and toes as a result of lead poisoning.

Reproductive Disorders

• Lead poisoning can cause reproductive disorders in adults, including abnormal sperm in men and miscarriage and premature delivery in women.