Behavior problems, emotional problems, and lowered intelligence may all occur. Kidney damage, nerve damage that may cause paralysis, and even death may also occur. Lead poisoning is not contagious and poses no risks to others. The most important treatment is stopping the source of lead exposure. For more severe poisoning, medications may be needed to help remove lead from the body.
Chelation is a procedure that helps bind the lead and remove it from the body.
Life-threatening lead poisoning, which is rare, requires treatment in a hospital. Stopping lead exposure may involve major life changes and expense. For example, changing jobs, moving, or repairing the home or apartment may be needed. All medications have side effects. The medications used to decrease lead in the body may cause allergic reactions and stomach upset.