Botulism

Botulism

This condition is caused by bacteria Clostridium botulinum which secretes toxin called botulism. There are three forms of botulinum toxin:

  • Infant botulism which occurs between the age of 8 months to 2 years
  • Foodborne botulism
  • Wound botulism
Symptoms

General signs and symptoms of all types of botulism include:Botulism

  • Dry mouth
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Difficulty in swallowing
  • Ptosis
  • Weakness
  • Paralysis
  • Weak cry
  • Floppy muscles
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
Causes

Infant botulism: infant get an infection by honey which is contaminated with bacteria clostridium botulinum, bacteria grow in the GIT of infant and make toxins.

Wound botulism: in this type bacteria is entering into the body through an open wound in the body or through contaminated needles in drug abusers.

Foodborne botulism: in foodborne botulism, bacteria are present in can food and in honey in which they secrete toxins which are then eaten by humans.

Complications

If left untreated it may lead to the complications include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Weakness
  • Trouble swallowing
  • Weight loss
  • Difficulty in speaking
Diagnosis

After taking history and conducting a physical examination your doctor might recommend the blood, urine, and vomit test for the confirmation of cause.

Treatment

In early-stage gastric lavage or stomach, the wash may help to remove the toxic substance from your stomach. If the infection goes into the blood then your doctor might prescribe the antibiotic to treat the infection. Antitoxin also helps to prevent complications and fight with toxin produce by bacteria.

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