Why is this procedure done?
A lead level test measures how much lead is in your blood. Lead is a kind of metal that is very harmful when you swallow it or breathe it into your lungs. Lead is used to make batteries, pottery, plastics, and protective coatings. The most common cause of lead poisoning is old paint. Houses and apartments that were built before 1978 may have lead-based paint on the walls. Children get lead poisoning by eating or breathing dust, bits of old paint, or dirt that has lead in it. A small amount of lead can lead to health problems. It affects the mental and physical development of children under the age of 6. The doctor may order this test to: ‚
- Screen people who are at risk for lead poisoning like industrial workers and children in urban areas
- Check if the treatment used for lead poisoning is working
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What will the results be?
- The doctor will look at the results of your test and what is normal. The doctor will know if you have an illness that needs treatment.
- The results will tell your doctor how much lead is in your blood. But it is also important to know that lead may be in other places in your body.
- The amount of lead in your blood and body that is dangerous is based on how old you are and your health. It also depends on how much lead you have been exposed to and for how long.
- Your doctor may order another test to verify the diagnosis.
- The doctor will talk with you about treatment.
What happens before the procedure?
- There are no special things to do before the test.
- Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking
- If you have any bleeding problems
What happens during the procedure?
- It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. You will have a small amount of blood taken from you with a needle. You may have a small amount of pain. The needle will be taken out and a bandage will be put on your skin. The blood will be sent to the lab for testing.
- Instead of using a needle, the staff may prick your finger or collect it in a small tube. In babies, the heel is pricked instead of the finger.
What happens after the procedure?
- You may want to sit quietly for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
- Ask your doctor when you will get the results.
What care is needed at home?
You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your lead levels. Together you can make a plan for more care. ‚
What problems could happen?
- Pain
- Bruising
- Bleeding
- Feeling dizzy
- Infection
Where can I learn more?
American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/lead ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚