A paraffin candle sometimes has lead in the wick's core, which you can spot by looking for a thin wire in the center of the cotton wick. Lead matter is emitted when the candle burns. This is distressing news in light of the fact that 100 percent of lead inhaled from candlewicks is absorbed into the bloodstream. The Journal of the American Medical Association suggests that families exposed to candles with metallic wicks should have their blood-lead levels checked.
Children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning.
As for adults, early signs of poisoning include gastrointestinal problems, muscle pains and weakness, irritability, excessive thirst, headache, insomnia, depression and lethargy. People with asthma or lung or heart diseases are especially susceptible because even small amounts of lead particles can aggravate their condition. Candles are enjoyable, calming and fragrant, but don't ever forget that when you burn them, you are dealing with fire. Always take proper precautions to prevent your enjoyable experience from turning into a disaster. The number of home fires started by candles has increased dramatically in the last ten years.