Paraquat is a highly toxic herbicide used in several agricultural products. Although studies have found that Paraquat exposure is a contributing factor to Parkinson’s Disease (PD), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies it as a “restricted use” pesticide. As a result, individuals can still use the harmful substance but must follow strict safety measures. Unfortunately, numerous victims have suffered harm, causing them to file Paraquat claims in a class action lawsuit.
While over 50 countries worldwide have banned Paraquat products, others such as the United States have yet to do the same. Victims who were subsequently diagnosed with PD or have related symptoms from Paraquat exposure are filing claims against the manufacturers to receive compensation for their losses.
How Humans Can Be Exposed to Paraquat
Humans can be exposed to Paraquat in various ways. Ingestion, or swallowing, is a common means of exposure.
Skin contact is another possibility. If a person handles or is in contact with surfaces containing Paraquat, they may absorb its toxins through their skin. Lastly, inhalation can occur if an individual breathes in air particles of Paraquat during application or cleaning.
The Harmful Effects of Paraquat Exposure
Inhaling or ingesting Paraquat can cause several potentially fatal conditions, such as gastrointestinal issues, liver damage, and respiratory problems. Direct contact with the mouth, intestines, or stomach causes immediate damage. Paraquat inhalation and ingestion have also been found to significantly contribute to the development of PD.
Immediate Signs & Symptoms of Paraquat Exposure
Even the smallest quantities of Paraquat can cause a range of signs and symptoms, such as the following:
- Stomach pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or bloody stool
- Seizures
- Dehydration
- Confusion
- Elevated heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Coma
- Fluid in the lungs
- Scarred lungs
- Pain and swelling in the mouth and throat
- Muscle fatigue or weakness
There is no cure for Paraquat poisoning – victims must receive immediate medical attention to prevent further harm.
The Long-Term Effects of Paraquat Exposure
The long-term effects of Paraquat exposure can be devastating. Inhaling the herbicide may cause lung damage and heart or kidney failure. It can also cause esophageal strictures, which is damage to the tube carrying food from the mouth to the stomach.
Other long-term adverse effects include the following:
- Parkinson’s Disease (PD)
- Weakened immune system
- Liver failure
- Skin inflammation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Damaged brain cells
- Multiple system atrophy
- Atypical Parkinsonian Disorders
The Paraquat & Parkinson’s Disease Link
Several scientific studies have identified a link between Paraquat exposure and an increased risk of Parkinson’s Disease. In fact, a recent study concluded that those exposed to Paraquat were 2.5 times more likely to develop PD than those who weren’t.
The slightest Paraquat exposure can permanently disrupt the human nervous system by inducing oxidative stress. Paraquat breaks down oxygen atoms within cells of any living organism, causing cell death. While proven successful in farming, human oxidative stress has damaging and irreversible effects.
Paraquat causes significant damage to the neurons producing the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. This loss of dopamine leads to Parkinson’s Disease symptoms. The herbicide can increase the risk of PD via swallowing or simply living near an area where it’s sprayed.
Parkinson’s Disease Signs & Symptoms
Parkinson’s Disease is a neurological disorder that affects the brain and nervous system. As a progressive condition, its symptoms worsen over time. Since there are no blood tests or scans that can diagnose PD, individuals may experience symptoms without a formal PD diagnosis.
Parkinson’s Disease symptoms include the following:
- Hand tremors
- Loss of balance
- Low voice/difficulty speaking
- Small handwriting
- Asymmetric resting tremor
- Confusion during evening hours
- Parkinsonian gait (take small, shuffling steps/difficulty picking up feet)
- Reduced arm swing
- Facial masking/frozen face (loss of facial expressions)
- Drooling
- Prolonged stiffness
- Slowed/difficult movement
- Rigidity
- Freezing (inability to move)
- Early awakenings or sleep disturbances
Paraquat’s manufacturers and distributors continue to sell this toxic chemical knowing its devastating effects on the human body. Those whose lives have been drastically changed by Paraquat exposure and related PD diagnoses and symptoms deserve compensation for their suffering.
Paraquat Claims Litigation
At Carey Danis & Lowe, we understand the pain that Paraquat causes. Our team has years of experience handling Paraquat claims on behalf of injured victims and their families across the United States. We are currently involved in litigation against the manufacturers and distributors of Paraquat, who have knowingly sold products containing the toxin.
Qualifying for Paraquat Claims
Every state has statutes of limitations on filing claims – failure to file within the specific timeframe could result in case dismissal. You must contact our Paraquat lawsuit attorneys immediately if you were exposed to Paraquat and diagnosed with PD as a result. You may also qualify for a Paraquat claim if you were exposed and currently take medication associated with PD symptoms.
Suppose you have had Paraquat exposure and are taking any of the following medicines to treat PD symptoms. In that case, you may qualify for Paraquat litigation even without a formal PD diagnosis. Qualifying medications include:
- GOCOVRI (amantadine)
- Eldepryl (selegiline)
- Nourianz (istradefylline)
- Requip (ropinirole)
- Xadago (safinamide)
- Zelapar (selegiline HCL)
- KYNMOBI (apomorphine hydrochloride)
- Apokyn (apomorphine hydrochloride injection)
- Artane (trihexyphenidyl HCL)
- Azilect (rasagiline)
- Cogentin (benztropine)
- Sinemet (levodopa)
- Mirapex (pramipexole)
- Neupro (rotigotine transdermal system)
Our team will investigate your case to ensure a direct link between your Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s Disease diagnosis or symptoms. We’ll work closely with experts in the medical field when gathering, analyzing, and presenting all evidence to maximize your financial recovery.
Possible Damages
Victims whose Paraquat exposure directly caused the onset of PD or the need to take medication for related symptoms may receive compensation for various damages.
Filing Paraquat Claims
Although every victim’s case differs, the process of filing Paraquat claims in the current class action lawsuit typically involves the following steps:
- Gathering documents and evidence related to your Paraquat exposure. You must provide information regarding the time and place you were subjected. Additionally, Paraquat required a license to purchase and a registry of all users after 1978.
- Consulting with an experienced Paraquat lawyer. The experienced Paraquat lawyers at Carey Danis & Lowe can investigate your case, determine if a factual claim exists, and represent you in legal matters.
- Filing a Paraquat claim with the appropriate court to begin the legal process.
- Gathering additional evidence and witnesses, if necessary, to prove your case.
- Presenting your case in court and seeking damages for losses related to Paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s Disease.
- Negotiating a settlement with the defendants.
Carey Danis & Lowe Helps File Paraquat Claims
If you were exposed to Paraquat and diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease or experience symptoms as a result, contact Carey Danis & Lowe. Our team has been at the forefront of litigation, defending victims against some of America’s largest corporations for decades.
We understand the pain that Paraquat exposure has caused, and we’ll work tirelessly to secure compensation for your losses. We’ll help you determine whether you have a case and will explain your rights and legal options. We have the resources, knowledge, and experience necessary to build a compelling case in your favor.
Let us fight for you – contact us today for a free case consultation and to file a Paraquat claim.
