Is Lead Screening Still Necessary?

Wondering if your child requires a lead screening?

There are specific tests and screenings that our Pleasanton and San Ramon CA, pediatricians will need to perform on every child and teen in our office. One of those necessary tests is a lead screening. All children must get screened during their 12-month and 24-month checkups.

Why Is Lead Screening So Important?

Exposure to lead can be particularly detrimental to your child’s health, causing long-term complications and issues to many systems and organs in the body, including the heart and kidneys. Lead exposure has also been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders. Even low levels of lead exposure can often go undetected because your child may not be showing symptoms, so it’s essential to turn to our San Ramon and Pleasanton, CA, pediatricians for a lead screening.

When Is a Blood Lead Test Needed?

A blood lead test is performed upon the parents’ request, if a child is displaying signs of lead poisoning or if parents suspect their child was exposed to lead. A simple finger or heel prick can give us all we need to measure lead in the blood.

Where Is Lead Found?

If your home was built before 1978, chances are good that there may be lead in the house. More specifically, your home probably has lead paint. Make sure to keep your child away from chipping or cracking paint. Lead can also be found in,

• Dust
• Pottery
• Toys
• Soil
• Water pipes
• Batteries

What Are the Signs of Lead Poisoning in Children?

As we mentioned earlier, some kids won’t display symptoms, especially if they are dealing with minor exposure; however, some warning signs include,

• Joint pain
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Headaches
• Learning difficulties
• Developmental delays
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Stunted growth

More kids need to undergo a lead screening. When you turn to our San Ramon and Pleasanton, CA, pediatricians for your child’s next visit, ask us if a lead screening is necessary (especially if they’ve never had one before). Call TRI-Valley Pediatrics at (925) 460-8444 or (925) 380-6230 to learn more.