Welders Disease

     Manganese exposure occurs primarily via ingestion or inhalation.  Manganese is a respiratory tract irritant and commonly causes an inflammatory response from the lungs making welders more susceptible to infection.  Once inhaled, manganese can severely damage the nervous system and respiratory tract in the form of lung cancer, as well as cause Manganism.  Respiratory effects on the human body are well documented and include, but are not limited to, metal fume fever, pneumonitis, cough, bronchitis, chronic obstructive lung disease, and a decrease in lung function.  

     When manganese is ingested orally, it is usually quickly cleared from the blood by the liver.  On the other hand, when manganese is inhaled, it is absorbed into the respiratory tract and transported through the blood stream directly to the brain; initially bypassing the liver and the opportunity for first-pass hepatic clearance.  The direct path from the respiratory tract to the brain renders welders who inhale manganese fumes particularly susceptible to its toxic effects as the neurotoxin takes longer to clear than others who may have ingested manganese orally.  This puts welders at a particular disadvantage for an increased risk of exposure.

     Welding rod fumes contain manganese a deadly neurotoxin that inhibits the brain’s ability to regulate physical motion.  Welding torch cutters and stick welding rod workers exposed to these manganese fumes develop Parkinsonian symptoms known in welding rod litigation as manganism. If you or a loved one has been injured due to welding rod fumes then please fill out the Welding Rod Lawyers Consultation form below and receive free case evaluations from welding rod attorneys.

---

Free Welders Disease Consultation

---