Overview
Lead harms the brain and nerves, especially in children under 6, often without any symptoms.
Common sources are old paint (before 1978), soil, some imported spices, cosmetics, and pipes.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Possible lead exposure
Less common
- Learning problems
- Belly pain
When to get medical care
Call 911Seizures or confusion.
Get care todayBelly pain and vomiting.
See a doctor soonTest for kids at ages 1 and 2.
Causes
Old paint, water.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Children
- Old homes
Diagnosis
Blood test.
Treatment
Remove the source.
Self-care
- Wet-clean dust
- Wash hands
- Keep children away from peeling paint
- Use cold tap water for cooking
- Wash toys and hands often
Prevention
To lower your risk or prevent problems:
- Test homes built before 1978
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- Poison Control can help right away, any time: call 1-800-222-1222.
Children, pregnancy, and older adults
- Pregnancy: Lead can pass to the baby.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
Outlook
Preventable.
Removing the source lowers levels over time.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- Should my child be tested?
- How do I find lead in my home?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.