Paraquat Campaign
Understanding the Health Risks Associated with Paraquat Exposure
First, it is essential to understand the potency of Paraquat and the minimal amount considered hazardous to humans. As little as a single teaspoon of Paraquat can be lethal for the average person. Typically, the product was sprayed in commercial applications, which led to toxic contamination of the air inhaled by nearby humans. Poisoning can also occur from skin contact with the substance and from consuming foods that were sprayed with Paraquat.
While the substance damages cells in the liver, kidneys, and lungs, the most severe damage is typically in the lungs as they begin to scar and retain fluid. In cases of extended exposure or the ingestion of larger quantities, the victim could experience cardiogenic shock and multi-organ failure. The result of cardiogenic shock is that the heart is no longer capable of pumping blood throughout the body.
Signs of Paraquat Poisoning
- Pain or swelling in the mouth or throat
- Tongue or mouth ulcers
- Bleeding in the mouth or throat
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain or cramping
- Bloody diarrhea
- Increased heart rate
- Difficulty breathing
- Muscle weakness
- Confusion
- Yellowed skin
- Seizures
- Coma or loss of consciousness
The Long-Term Impact of Paraquat Exposure
Even with treatment, exposure to Paraquat can lead to a lifetime of health issues, expenses, and challenges. Paraquat poisoning survivors face a significantly increased risk of several serious health maladies that include:
- Cardiomyopathy – a disorder that impacts the heart muscle and its ability to circulate blood throughout the body
- Chronic lung inflammation – the inflammation hampers the lung's ability to process oxygen to oxygenate the blood
- Pulmonary fibrosis – a thickening and scarring of lung tissue impeding the processing of oxygen
- Skin cancer
- Thyroid cancer