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Welding fuses pieces of metal by the use of heat, pressure or both. When metals are fused by heat, melting occurs and fumes are created. The fumes produced by the welding process contain the elements of the metal being welded.

In many welding operations, the fumes contain the element manganese, a known neurotoxin. Over time, exposure to these fumes through inhalation can cause "manganism." The symptoms of manganism are so similar to the symptoms of Parkinson's Disease, that manganism is frequently misdiagnosed. With manganism, however, it is excessive exposure to manganese which injures the part of the brain that controls deliberate muscle movements.

Like Parkinson's Disease, symptoms of manganism can include:

Muscle stiffness, aches, pains or cramps
Tremors or shaking
Shuffling or difficulty walking
Poor balance
Poor memory
Lack of facial expression
Slow or slurred speech
Difficulty writing
Difficulty swallowing or eating

Although the damage caused to the brain is most often permanent, the symptoms of manganism can be treated.

Martzell & Bickford represents welders and other persons exposed to welding fumes who suffer from manganism. The lawyers at Martzell & Bickford evaluate each potential claim on a case by case basis, filing individual lawsuits rather than class actions. This unique approach assures that our clients receive the personalized attention they deserve.

If you suffer from any of the symptoms of manganism and want to learn how we can help,
please click here or call us at 1-800-432-4427.