Definition

Lead poisoning occurs when a person swallows lead or breathes in its fumes. The result can be damage to the brain, nerves, and many other parts of the body. Acute lead poisoning occurs when a person takes in a large amount of lead over a short period of time. Acute lead poisoning is rare. Chronic lead poisoning occurs when small amounts of lead are taken in over a longer period. Chronic lead poisoning is a common problem among children.

Description

Lead can damage almost every system in the body. It can also cause hypertension (high blood pressure; see hypertension entry). Lead poisoning is especially harmful to fetuses and young children because it damages body systems that are still developing.

The seriousness of lead damage depends on two factors: the amount of lead that gets into the body and the length of time it remains there...