But over time, lead can damage the brain, blood, nerves, kidneys and reproductive organs. Young children are especially affected by lead. Lead dust can collect on work clothes during the day. When those clothes are worn home, the lead can contaminate workers' cars and homes. Young children can then be poisoned by the lead-contaminated dust.
Lead poisoning can occur when people are exposed to large or small amounts of lead over time.
Lead builds up in the body and may cause temporary or permanent damage. A blood lead test can show whether your body has absorbed a dangerous amount of lead. A high blood lead level is an indication that lead is building up in the body faster than it can be eliminated. There are many symptoms or signs that suggest a problem with lead, but they can also be symptoms of other illnesses. It is also possible to have lead poisoning without noticing any symptoms.