Paraquat: What is it?

Paraquat is a highly poisonous chemical commonly used across the United States as an herbicide to kill weeds and grass. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) categorizes paraquat products as “Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs),” which means only certified applicators can apply it.

Those who live close to industrial farms and those who work in agriculture are the most vulnerable to exposure.

Parkinsons Disease Linked to Paraquat:

Parkinson’s disease is one of the many adverse events that has been linked to Paraquat.   Oxidative stress is the mechanism via which paraquat enters the body and modifies a cell’s chemistry. Cell damage or even cell death may result from this. Parkinson’s disease can happen when some dopamine neuron cells in the brain are harmed and unable to function normally.

This extremely toxic herbicide is currently illegal in 32 nations worldwide, but not in the US. In addition, there has been a steady increase in the use of this herbicide in the US in recent years.

Parkinson’s Disease Symptoms

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological condition affecting movement. Typically, symptoms develop gradually and lead to a range of motor and non-motor problems.

Although there is no known cure for Parkinson’s disease, there are drugs and therapy alternatives that can help manage and minimize the symptoms.

Symptoms of Parkinsons

• Trembling
• Whole body fatigue or dizziness
• Amnesia or confusion in evening hours
• Early awakenings or sleep disturbances
• Anxiety or apathy
• Hallucinations

• 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

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease or Parkinson’s symptoms after exposure to Paraquat, Wagstaff & Cartmell may be able to help. Our products liability 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 816-701-1100 so that we may better evaluate your claim.