What should be done if a child has high lead levels in the body?
Elevated lead levels in children may be associated with dietary factors, exposure to secondhand smoke, peeling paint, industrial pollution, and lead poisoning. Management typically involves adjusting diet, avoiding sources of contamination, and medical treatment. Specific details are as follows:
1. Dietary factors: Certain foods may contain high levels of lead, such as popcorn made by traditional methods or preserved eggs (e.g., century eggs). Long-term consumption of these foods can increase lead accumulation in the body. It is advisable to consume more foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and kiwifruit, as vitamin C helps promote lead excretion.
2. Secondhand smoke exposure: Cigarette smoke exhaled by smokers contains lead, which children may inhale passively in household environments. Establishing a smoke-free home environment and encouraging smokers to quit can help reduce this risk.
3. Peeling paint: In older buildings, deteriorating lead-based paint can produce dust that children may inhale or accidentally ingest. Regularly inspect and repair walls that may contain lead-based paint, and repaint using lead-free paint.
4. Industrial pollution: Industrial emissions near where children live or play—such as from battery manufacturing plants or metal smelters—may contain lead, which can enter the body through air, soil, or water sources. Avoid contact with contaminated areas and improve ventilation in living spaces.
5. Lead poisoning: When lead levels in the body exceed safe limits, lead poisoning can occur. This condition can damage multiple systems in children, including the nervous, hematologic, and digestive systems, adversely affecting growth and development. Under medical supervision, treatment may include medications such as calcium disodium edetate injection, dimercaptosuccinic acid capsules, or sulfhydryl complexing agents.
It is recommended to strengthen preventive measures in daily life, minimize children's exposure to lead-containing materials, and ensure healthy growth and development.
