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Parkinson's Disease
Manganism is classified as a Parkinson syndrome because it
resembles Parkinson's disease. A research team from Washington
University found that some professional welders developed
signs of Parkinson's disease an average of 15 years earlier
than the general population; this may be related to inhalation
of manganese.
Parkinson's disease is a disorder of the central nervous system
that affects between one and one-and-a-half million Americans.
It is characterized by slowness of movement and tremors, often
affecting one side of the body more than the other.
The primary symptoms of Parkinson's disease are:
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Rigidity (increased stiffness in the muscles).This often
leads to pain, especially in the arms and shoulders.
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Tremor. Besides affecting the arms and legs, it sometimes
involves the head, neck, and face.
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Slowness of movement.
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Poor balance. Particularly during abrupt movement. This
may lead to repeated falls.
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Walking problems. Short, shuffling steps; difficulty
turning; and inability to take the next step.
Secondary symptoms may include dizziness, sleep disturbances,
stooped posture, depression, impotence, and problems with
speech, breathing, and swallowing.
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