The link between welding and Parkinson's disease

Is it possible that the fumes welders find themselves exposed to are so toxic they can bring on Parkinson's disease? A jury thought so, awarding a welder $1 million dollars.

The welder's legal team argued first, that the cause of his illness was from the fumes that came off of welding rods; and second that the company that made the rods didn't warn anyone of the risks. The jury saw the evidence and decided there was a proven link between his debilitating symptoms and his years in the welding profession. Now there's talk of a class action lawsuit.

While Parkinson's disease is often associated with older adults, this welder was only 33 years old. If you've been exposed to these fumes and have noticed any change in your health, be sure to get medical advice.

Conditions and symptoms associated with welding rods
Parkinson's disease destroys the nerves that control muscle movement. Symptoms can include muscle cramps and stiffness, headaches, fatigue, speech and facial impairment, slowness, decreased hand dexterity, and problems with walking and balance. Over time, the condition worsens.

Other ailments that may be a result of exposure include pneumonitis, bronchitis, and lung disease.

Possibilties of exposure while welding
The following welding activities may have exposed you to toxic fumes: gas metal arc or metal inert gas (MIG) welding, gas tungsten arc or tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding, flux cored arc welding, shielded metal arc welding, brazing, thermal cutting, metal pouring or gauging.

The following materials may have exposed you to toxic fumes: steel-alloy welding rods, wires, and electrodes.