Lead-based Paints: A Cause for Concern

If you’re living in a property constructed before 1978, there’s a great chance that the walls are covered with lead-based paints. This can lead to a serious case of lead contamination, especially in the case of small children and pregnant women.

Here are the health concerns related to lead-based paints and how it affects both children and adults alike.

Lead-Based Paint

Lead is regarded as a highly toxic metal that upon ingestion, can lead to serious health conditions. Lead was commonly used in both interior and exterior paints up until the late 1970s when regulations banned the use of lead in new paints. However, this restriction was not on the paints that were created and used before the 1970s. This is the reason why most old properties have increased risks of lead contamination.

How Does Lead Paint Cause Contamination?

If the surface of the paint is intact and is in good condition, the lead paint doesn’t cause a health threat. As soon as the paint deteriorates, and lead flakes and dust start accumulating on various surfaces, such as floors, children’s toys, countertops, window sills, bedding and clothes, the problem occurs.

Small children are more likely to touch these surfaces, increasing their risk of lead poisoning. Moreover, children have weak immune systems and developing bone structures that make them more vulnerable to the absorption of lead in their bodies than adults.

Here are a few symptoms of lead poisoning in children:

• Fatigue and irritability
• Weight loss and loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation
• Vomiting
• Learning difficulties
• Developmental delays
• Hearing loss

Long term exposure to lead during pregnancy can lead to premature birth, nerve and brain damage of the fetus and lower-than-normal birth weight.

While children are at a greater risk of suffering from lead poisoning, lead exposure can cause these health conditions in adults:

• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Hypertension
• Muscle and joint pain
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Premature birth or miscarriages in women
• Memory loss
• Anemia
• Kidney damage
• Hearing loss

Lead Poisoning Prevention

Even if your property is old, if the paint is in good condition and shows no signs of peeling or chipping, there’s no need to worry about lead contamination. However, if you’re planning a renovation, consult professional lead removal services before you begin the work.

 ACI-TECH INC provides you lead removal services in Marcus Hook, PA. Contact us for a quick quote.