Lead Poisoning in New Hampshire
Lead poisoning is a dangerous condition that can occur when lead is consumed or when lead particles in the air are ingested. Most commonly children under the age of 6 are affected by the lead poisoning, but adults can experience injury from exposure to it as well. Most commonly, lead poisoning occurs in older homes where lead based paint was once used. Lead poisoning can also occur from the paint on children's toys or other items, often made overseas. Adults who work in auto repair shops or other businesses that may expose them to lead are also prone to lead poisoning.
Lead poisoning can occur in number of ways. Before 1978, homes, children's toys, household furniture and many other items used lead-based paint. Since that time, the use of these paints has been banned in the U.S. However, older homes and furniture may still contain lead paint. The most common way it is ingested is by young children eating lead-based paint chips that peeled off of walls and woodwork. If you believe your child may have been the victim of lead poisoning, contact a New Hampshire personal injury lawyer to find out if you have a case.
Symptoms of Lead Poisoning
Lead poisoning can often be hard to detect because symptoms are not always noticeable until high levels have been consumed. The Mayo Clinic lists the most common symptoms of lead poisoning in children as the following:
- Vomiting or constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty learning
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Irritability
Babies who have been exposed to lead before birth may demonstrate learning difficulties and delayed growth. It is important for anyone who notices these symptoms in their child to evaluate whether or not lead poisoning could have been possible.
Adults, too, should determine whether they have experienced lead poisoning if they notice any of the following symptoms:
- High blood pressure
- Pain or numbness in the extremities
- Weak muscles
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Memory loss or declined mental function
- Mood disorders
Who is Affected by Lead Poisoning?
Lead poisoning affects young children the most for many reasons. First of all, children are more prone to eating foreign objects such as lead paint chips by accident. In addition, young children also absorb lead more easily than adults. The worst part of lead poisoning is that it is often not discovered until extreme symptoms are noticed. Exposure to lead over time in children can lead to irreversible damage in brain development, kidney and nervous system function and can even cause death. Adults who are exposed to lead poisoning can face reproductive side effects including miscarriages and premature births.
New Hampshire Personal Injury Lawyer
If you or family member believe that you may have been exposed to lead and are now suffering symptoms similar to those of lead poisoning, contact a New Hampshire personal injury attorney right away. When it comes to your health, make sure you understand your rights. Russman Law will help you get the compensation you deserve for medical bills and pain and suffering. We will work hard for you.
