Most people have grown up trusting the municipal water system where they live. Unfortunately, events in recent years have shown that tap water isn’t always free of dangerous contaminants. Lead poisoning from tap water is a particularly concerning possibility.
The risk of lead poisoning in water that cities provide to residents has always been present but was highlighted by the events in Flint, Michigan. Tens of thousands of people were exposed to potential lead poisoning with many becoming sick. And because the effects of lead poisoning in water can take years to develop, the full scope of the crisis is not yet known.
Lead Poisoning Symptoms
Lead poisoning is a serious condition that can result in severe health problems. According to the Mayo Clinic, lead poisoning symptoms in children include:
- Developmental delay
- Learning difficulties
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Sluggishness and fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Hearing loss
- Seizures
- Eating things, such as paint chips, that aren't food (pica)
- High blood pressure
- Joint and muscle pain
- Difficulties with memory or concentration
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Mood disorders
- Reduced sperm count and abnormal sperm
- Miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth in pregnant women
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) agrees with that assessment and has numerous articles on its website explaining the public health risks of lead exposure. Clearly, identifying and addressing sources of high lead levels and providing lead poisoning treatment to those affected are critically important actions.
Lead Poisoning in Colorado and Denver’s Lead Reduction Program
Lead poisoning is a risk in every state, and Colorado is no exception. For example, while the water that Denver Water provides to residents is lead-free initially, in some cases it travels through old lead pipes, creating a health risk.
This reality prompted the creation of a lead reduction initiative involving testing, surveys, and pipe replacements. That’s a positive development, of course, as eliminating lead service lines and ensuring normal lead levels is essential to the health of Denver residents. However, it’s estimated that the lead reduction program won’t be completed until around 2035.
That leaves many people wondering if they should drink water provided by the city and to what degree they’re being exposed to lead today. They’re also mindful that exposure to lead comes in other forms. Lead-based paint can still be found in some locations, making it a dangerous source of lead contamination.
Turning to Natural Spring Water
In Denver and beyond, people are increasingly recognizing the value of switching to natural spring water. Whether they have young children in their home who could be harmed by high blood lead levels or want to protect their own health, residents are doing all they can to reduce the sources of lead that can impact them.
Eldorado Natural Spring Water emanates from artesian springs in Eldorado Springs, Colorado (near Boulder). Collecting deep underground and protected from potential contamination, the water is forced to the surface through a cleansing sandstone layer. The result is safe, great-tasting water courtesy of Mother Earth.
So, if you’re concerned about the quality of your municipal drinking water, just remember that having pure refreshment delivered to your home or business is convenient, affordable, and the best way to stay hydrated and healthy.
