Lead poisoning is too much lead in the body. Lead is especially harmful to the small bodies of children younger than 6 years old. Lead gets in their bodies when children eat lead or breath it in. Even small amounts of lead can harm a child's brain, kidneys and stomach.
Lead poisoning can slow a child's development and cause learning and behavior problems.
Your child may have lead poisoning and not feel sick. Or your child may have stomach aches, headaches, a poor appetite or trouble sleeping, or be cranky, tired or restless. All children 6 months to 6 years old should be screened for lead poisoning. Screening is done with blood taken from the finger. If too much lead is in the blood, your child may need treatment.