What are Pesticides?
A pesticide is a name given to a broad category of chemicals. These chemicals kill rodents, weeds, insects, bacteria and algae. The chemical composition of pesticide varies greatly because of the wide range of products that fall under its classification. Fumigants such as bromides, types of organochlorines, arsenic, and organophosphates are just a few of the types of chemicals used in pesticide. Adverse Effects of Pesticide
Pesticides are designed to be toxic. They are engineered and purchased because of their ability to kill. Using the same technology employed for chemical warfare, the chemicals can attack nerve impulses that control cardiac functions and central nervous functioning. The enzymes that the pesticides attack in insects and rodents are also found in humans. Headaches, rashes and asthma like conditions are typical of acute exposure. Prolonged exposure can produce birth defects and more detrimental central nervous disorders. Often, agricultural workers are the focus of toxic torts such as this. What Should You Do if You Have Been Exposed to Pesticide?
Most people use pesticides to get rid of bugs or weeds without causing injury to themselves or other people. If you have been injured by the use of pesticides, contact your physician if you have not already done so. Because of the vast amount of different chemicals used, extensive medical testing may be necessary to determine the cause of your injuries. Consulting an attorney specializing in toxic torts will help preserve your legal rights and your ability to recover from your injuries. Toxic torts such as pesticide exposure are often difficult to litigate because of the medical testing involved and the difficulty determining the source of the chemical. A toxic tort attorney can help organize and strengthen your case. |
