Lead (blood)

What this test is

Lead is a metal that can build up in the body. It can harm the nervous system. Most people have a tiny, harmless amount from everyday food, water, dust, and air. This blood test checks your lead level. It is most useful when there is a real reason to think you were exposed. That could be an older home being fixed up, certain imported spices or cosmetics, a job like welding, or a bullet fragment left in the body. Without a reason like that, a lead test usually just shows a normal, low level. It won't change your care. If your level is high, the main treatment is finding and removing the source. Medication is not always needed.