When lead enters the body, vital enzymes are inhibited. Lead poisoning occurs when small amounts of lead are absorbed by the body over a longer period of time or a larger dose is ingested all at once.

 

How does lead poisoning manifest itself?

 

Unborn babies, infants and small children are extremely sensitive to lead. This can lead to kidney and nerve damage and anaemia, which can even be fatal.

Minor lead poisoning causes stomach upset, vomiting, cramps, headaches, severe irritability and unsteady gait. Behavioural disorders and mental retardation can occur due to developmental disorders in the brain.

 

The kidneys and nervous system can also be damaged in adults. The usual symptoms of lead poisoning are high blood pressure, headaches, loss of appetite, intestinal disorders, memory loss, walking disorders and a metallic taste in the mouth. Lead poisoning during pregnancy can cause a miscarriage or lead to severe damage to the embryo.

 

How does lead get into the body?

 

It is now illegal to sell products containing lead, but there is still lead in our environment from outdated equipment and the like.

Lead is mainly found in paint, lead drinking water pipes, lead crystal, leaded porcelain and ceramics. Industrial waste gases from waste incineration plants, foundries, can factories and smelting works cause lead to enter the soil in the form of dust and accumulate there.

 

How do you avoid contact with lead?

 

For old buildings, you should find out how old the paint used is. Until the 1970s, paint still contained lead. If necessary, painted surfaces can be covered with plasterboard, wood panelling or wallpaper.

When sanding down paint that may contain lead, you should wear a respirator and thoroughly remove the dust afterwards. Small children and pregnant women should also wait a few days after the renovation work has been completed before entering the rooms.

Drinking water from the tap, ceramics and crystal glass should be tested for lead content. The Environmental Protection Agency can tell you where you can have it tested.

If there is lead in the soil, the top 20cm should be removed and replaced with clean soil.

Drinking water pipes containing lead should be replaced.

When buying ceramic or porcelain, you should make sure that it is made of lead-free material.

Do not store drinks in lead crystal carafes or old pewter crockery.

Do not serve acidic food on glazed ceramic.