Recognizing Lead Poisoning Symptoms

Lead-based paint was banned in the United States in 1978 because lead exposure is linked to illness, birth defects, and developmental problems in children. Most of the concern about lead poisoning is focused on child victims because of the effect that it can have on a developing child. However, adults can suffer from lead poisoning as well. In a recent post, we discussed how to avoid excessive exposure to lead but it is also important to educate yourself about the symptoms of lead poisoning in adults so you can recognize it in yourself and your colleagues if necessary. If you suffer from lead poisoning because of conditions present in your workplace, you could be entitled to file a workplace accident claim to seek monetary compensation for your damages. To learn more, speak with an experienced workplace accident attorney.

Adults who suffer from lead poisoning can exhibit the following symptoms:

• Nausea;
• High blood pressure;
• Headache;
• Memory loss;
• Constipation;
• Joint pain;
• Muscle pain;
• Abdominal pain;
• Tingling or pressure in the extremities; and
• Lowered mental functioning.

Men who suffer from lead poisoning can also experience a reduced sperm count or abnormal sperm.

The best way to reduce your chance of suffering from lead poisoning is taking steps to reduce your exposure to lead. Although lead is most commonly associated with paint in older buildings, it can also be found in soil, water, dust, traditional remedies, piping, and imported canned goods.

Lead poisoning can cause an individual to suffer from high blood pressure and by extension, the health problems that can follow like heart attack and stroke. Pregnant women who are exposed to lead are at risk of suffering a miscarriage, premature birth or low birth rate, and developmental and health problems in the baby after it is born, such as developmental delays, brain or kidney damage, and behavioral problems.

Other long-term effects lead poisoning can have on an adult include brain damage, damage to the nervous system, and damage to the stomach and kidneys. If you suffer from long term effects of lead poisoning due to poor safety procedures in place in your workplace, you can potentially seek compensation for your medical bills and other expenses related to your condition through a workplace accident claim. However, you will need to prove that your condition was directly caused by exposure in your workplace that could have been prevented with greater diligence by another party.

If you are suffering from the effects of lead poisoning due to exposure to lead in your workplace, an experienced San Jose workplace accident attorney can help you seek the monetary compensation you deserve. Contact our team at Corsiglia, McMahon, & Allard, L.L.P. today to schedule your initial legal consultation with us and learn more about your rights and options for filing a workplace accident claim. We proudly serve clients throughout the Bay Area, San Mateo County, Alameda County, San Benito County, Monterey County, and Santa Clara County.

• Pregnant Women