Lead is not natural within the body and is not required in the diet. Because of technology, however, lead exposure has become fairly common. This exposure can lead to increased levels of lead in the body, which may cause harm. The symptoms of lead poisoning can vary widely. The effects of lead poisoning depend on the person's age, the amount of lead in the body, and how long the exposure has been going on.
Lead poisoning is called acute if the exposure happens quickly.
Chronic exposure occurs over weeks or months. Both types of poisoning are harmful, but the symptoms tend to be slightly different. Children who live in old buildings with lead paint that is peeling or dissolving are at high risk. Lead dust or paint chips from lead paints may be breathed into the lungs or eaten. Though quite rare today, severe lead poisoning can cause death.