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What symptoms can occur during lead poisoning?

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A periodic table element box for lead (Pb) shows atomic number 82, atomic weight 207.2, electron configuration, and labels for symbol, name, crystal structure, and physical state, with a legend for color and symbol meanings. — lead Properties of lead.

Lead poisoning occurs when lead accumulates in body tissues over time, affecting the entire body, particularly the nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, and blood-forming tissues. Symptoms can develop gradually or appear suddenly.12

Common symptoms include:
* Gastrointestinal issues: Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and severe abdominal pain with muscle spasms, often called "lead colic".123
* Neurological and physical effects: Headache, dizziness, confusion, general weakness, and a metallic taste. Victims may become pallid, moody, or irritable.12
* Specific clinical signs: A black line, known as a "lead line," may appear at the base of the gums. Anemia is also frequently observed.23
* Advanced stages: Peripheral nerve involvement can lead to paralysis, such as "wrist drop," while severe cases in children may result in learning disabilities, blindness, deafness, convulsions, coma, and death.2

In adults, chronic exposure may also lead to progressive renal disease. Because lead poisoning can cause permanent damage, especially in children under six, it is a serious health concern requiring immediate elimination of contact with the lead source.12