History records that Beethoven continued working on his music until the day he died. This implies that Beethoven decided to keep his mind clear for his music. Beethoven's Symptoms and Plumbism Beethoven's health was quite normal as a young musical prodigy. However in his early 20's, Beethoven developed chronic disturbing illnesses that plagued him throughout his adult life. He saw many doctors in an unsuccessful attempt to end this misery.
Abdominal distress is a common symptom of lead poisoning.
Beethoven's personality also transformed during his illness. This friendly and charming young man gradually became irritable, hot-tempered, socially isolated, and suffered from bouts of depression and despair. These are all classic symptoms of depression. At age 31, Beethoven reported that he was losing his hearing. By age 42 he was nearly completely deaf.