Lead poisoning can be difficult to diagnose. It often builds up over time as a result of repeated exposure to small amounts of lead. Children who have been exposed to lead may exhibit physical symptoms such as nausea, headache, stomachaches, or persistent fatigue. These are similar to flu symptoms, which can cause attention to be drawn away from making a lead poisoning diagnosis. Behavioral symptoms in children include irritability, aggressiveness, hyperactivity, learning problems, or loss of appetite. Symptoms in adults include abdominal pain, headaches, irritability, difficulty sleeping, constipation, low appetite and energy, and reduced sensations.
Lead blood levels are measured by using blood tests. It is recommended that children under the age of six be tested annually for lead.