My Child's Lead Levels Are High: Is Chelation Therapy an Option?

Lead poisoning is much rarer now than it was in the past. However, about 500,000 United States children between the ages of one and five have elevated lead levels in their blood. 

Lead poisoning can increase the risk of neurological damage and learning disabilities, which is why treatment is so important. 

If your child has been diagnosed with elevated lead levels, it’s normal to be worried. The good news is that several treatments are available, including chelation therapy. Our HealthFirst team regularly uses chelation therapy to treat exposure to toxic metals. 

How does lead exposure happen

Many parents assume that lead poisoning isn’t something to worry about. While it is less common in America than in other parts of the world, lead exposure still happens due to:

• Lead-based paints in older homes
• Contaminated soil and dust
• Drinking water that runs through old plumbing
• Imported toys and home goods

Almost everyone is exposed to low levels of lead during their lifetime. However, children are especially vulnerable, because they frequently put their hands and other objects in their mouths.

At the same time, their brains and bodies are developing, which increases the risk of long-term side effects, such as developmental delays, learning disabilities, and neurological damage.

When to seek evaluation for possible lead exposure

Make an appointment with our team if you suspect your child has been exposed to lead and they develop symptoms such as:

• Persistent stomach pain
• Fatigue
• Increased irritability
• Loss of appetite

After a physical exam and blood testing, we can assess your child’s lead levels and determine whether they need to be treated.

Understanding chelation therapy

Chelation therapy is an outpatient treatment that removes toxic metals, such as lead, from your child’s blood. 

We perform chelation therapy with calcium ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA). Once calcium EDTA enters your child’s bloodstream, it attaches to toxic metals so they can be safely eliminated from the body in urine.

When chelation therapy is recommended

Lead levels are measured in micrograms per deciliter of blood (mcg/dL). If your child’s bloodwork shows their lead levels are 45 mcg/dL or greater, chelation therapy may be recommended based on their symptoms and evaluation.

If your child’s lead levels don’t meet that threshold, we often recommend at-home measures, such as removing the source of exposure and monitoring blood levels regularly, to support their health.

What parents can expect from chelation therapy

Chelation therapy typically consists of a series of 20 to 40 in-office treatments, with each session lasting between one and three hours. The number of infusions your child will need depends on their age, health, and overall lead levels. 

Chelation therapy is administered intravenously (IV). A small needle is inserted into your child’s arm. The needle connects to a bag containing high-quality calcium EDTA, and slowly mixes with your child’s blood throughout the course of the session.

During treatment, your child can sit or lie down while the infusion is delivered. We recommend bringing books, an electronic device, or toys to help pass the time and keep them entertained.

Following each round of chelation therapy, we administer a second intravenous nutrient infusion containing vitamins and antioxidants at no extra charge. These nutrients assist with detox and may help reduce the risk of side effects, such as headache and nausea. 

After your child completes their final chelation therapy session, we retest their blood to ensure their lead levels are within the optimal range. Once those levels are achieved, we typically recommend routine blood tests to monitor any fluctuations and support their long-term health.

See if your child can benefit from chelation therapy

Lead poisoning can increase the risk of developmental delays and other health issues, so prompt treatment is crucial. If you’re worried about your child’s lead levels, contact the HealthFirst office in Cheyenne, Wyoming, today to schedule an appointment. 

After an exam and lab work, we can determine whether they’re a candidate for chelation therapy.