Botulism is considered as a rare but severe disorder that results to paralysis. The condition is brought about by nerve toxins released by the Clostridium botulinum bacteria.
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It is usually the result of consuming food that has been contaminated by the toxin, ingesting soil or dust that contains the bacteria or wound contamination.
What are the indications?
The indications of infant botulism typically include the following:
- Constipation
- Weak cry
- Appetite loss
- Weak suck
- Muscle weakness
- Poor head control
When it comes to foodborne botulism, the symptoms start from a few hours to several days after consumption of contaminated food.
The initial indications of foodborne botulism include the following:
- Evident fatigue
- Weakness
- Vertigo that is followed by blurry vision
- Difficulty swallowing
- Dry mouth
- Nausea and/or vomiting
Remember that these symptoms might progress to paralysis of the arm muscles and progress down the body to include the trunk and legs. In addition, paralysis of the breathing muscles can be deadly.
Recovery is possible if diagnosed and treated early. When it comes to foodborne botulism, the symptoms start from a few hours to several days after consumption of contaminated food.
How does it spread
It is important to note that infant botulism occurs if a child ingests the spores of the botulinum bacteria that grow in the intestines and releases toxins. These spores are present in soil and dust. In addition, raw honey is reported to cause infant botulism as well.
Foodborne botulism is triggered if the bacteria grows and produces toxin in food which was eaten without adequate heating. This is likely to occur in salted, fermented or smoked fish or meat products as well as bottled or canned fruits and vegetables.
Who are at risk for botulism?
Children below 12 months of age face the highest risk for intestinal botulism. Older children and adults are not affected since they have established defenses in the gut to stop the production of the toxin.
Intestinal botulism among adults is rare but those who have weak immune systems or bowel issues are at high risk. Those who have open wounds that were not properly cleaned are at risk for wound botulism.
Management
The doctor will diagnose botulism based on the symptoms and identity the toxin in the feces or blood.
It is important to note that botulism is usually managed using an antitoxin in which hospitalization is required. Care in an intensive care unit under a mechanical ventilator is required if the breathing muscles are involved. Additionally, infants might require immunoglobulin.