What is Paraquat?
Paraquat is a highly toxic herbicide that has been used commercially since the 1960s to kill weeds. It is restricted to commercial use only. Farmers and agricultural workers are the most at risk for exposure and those who live near industrial farms.
Links to Parkinson's Disease
Paraquat has been linked to multiple side effects, including Parkinson's disease. Paraquat can alter the chemistry of a cell through a process called oxidative stress. This can cause cell damage and even death of the cell. When specific dopamine neuron cells in the brain are damaged and can no longer function properly, Parkinson's disease can occur.
The highly toxic herbicide has been banned in 32 countries across the world, but not yet in the United States. The use of this herbicide in the United States has, in fact continuously grown in the recent years.
Click here to read a letter written by the Unified Parkinson's Advocacy Council
Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is a nervous system disorder that affects movement and progresses over time. Symptoms typically start gradually and cause a variety of both motor and non-motor.
Parkinson's disease can't be cured, but the medications and treatment options that are available help improve and lessen the symptoms.
Motor and Non-Motor Symptoms of Parkinson's
- Tremors (hand or other)
- Prolonged or extreme stiffness
- Difficulty with body movements
- Loss of balance
- Difficulty walking (slow gait, shuffling)
- Difficulty or soft speaking
- Reduced facial expression, blank stare
- Drooling
- Small handwriting
- Trembling
- Whole body fatigue or dizziness
- Amnesia or confusion in evening hours
- Early awakenings or sleep disturbances
- Anxiety or apathy
- Hallucinations
How Our Injury Lawyers Can Help
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease after dermal or inhalation exposure to Paraquat, you need legal help. Our injury lawyers can examine your case and help you understand your rights. Time is of the essence. Please contact us by using the online form or by calling our office at 303-376-6360 so that we may better evaluate your claim.