Ped wants blood test for lead? normal?

Question

Hi all!

yesterday I took my daughter (13 months) for her well check visit & her ped gave me a prescription to get blood taken to check her lead levels (& something else but I cant read her hand writing-go figure LOL)

I was just wondering if this is standard practice b/c Ive never heard of such a thing - Has anyone else done this?

Answer 1

Yes, it is actually standard procedure. Before a certain year, all household paints had lead in them. If you live in or are ever planning on buying an older home, you should always have the paint checked for lead when doing a home inspection. They especially do it for younger children due to their habits of constantly putting things in their mouths.

Lead can cause serious health defects in children.

More than likely they're also checking the iron levels or the blood sugar.

My pediatrician did the same thing for my son when he was that age. Thankfully all was normal.

Answer 2

I'd say it's pretty normal. I don't know if she or any other doctor checks EVERYONE for it, but I know that it's just a routine check.

Lead is found in older paint products around the house, and sometimes children can become exposed to it because they like to stick everything in their mouths. I wouldn't be worried unless she asked about any symptoms.