Sources of Lead

More than half a million American nursery children have elevated levels of lead in their blood, even though lead paints have been banned for more than 30 years. This is because old paint is still prevalent on the walls of many homes, workplaces and schools across the United States. These lead painted surfaces can release dust particles into the air and paint can smudge into the skin. Other soures of lead include, old lead pipes, ceramics, solders, batteries and cosmetics.

 

The Dangers of Lead

High levels of lead in the blood can cause learning difficulties in children. It can lead to anaemia and possible behavioural problems. But in extreme acute cases it can also cause serious brain damage and overexposure can even lead to death.
The signs to look for in children include headaches, irritability, stomach aches and pains in muscles and joints.

 

Ways to deal with lead poisoning

A quick remedy for lead poisoning is to eat calcium and iron rich foods like dark vegetables (kale and turnip greens), dried fruit (apricots and fig) and foods like beans and pulses. Avoid milk and dairy products if possible because they contain enough fat to actually negate the effects of any calcium you might gain from them (fat helps the body absorb lead).
But for serious cases of lead poisoning a drug called Chelation is often prescribed. The drug works by binding to lead and it is fed into the patient intravenously enabling the absorbed lead to be excreted.

 

Lead paint removal

If you suspect that your house has lead paint or if it is more than 25 years old you should have it tested for lead residues. If a hazard does exist you must try and get the lead paint removed as soon as possible. Always use the services of trained professionals when requiring large scale lead paint removal from your home.

 

Alternatively you could paint over the offending section of lead paint. Only consider this option if you have small areas to cover. Make sure the surfaces are free of dust and remember not to sand or scrap any paint. If possible avoid creating lead paint particles that could be breathed in or rubbed off.