Botulism is a disease caused by a bacteria. The bacteria release a toxin, which is what actually causes the disease, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Botulism can be fatal and prompt treatment is necessary. An understanding of the proper treatment regimen can help patients prepare for what is necessary to overcome the disease.
Botulism Antitoxin
Botulism antitoxin works by binding to any free botulin toxin in the patient. By binding to the toxin, the antitoxin deactivates it and prevents it from affecting the patient. According to the WHO, once a patient has been diagnosed with the disease, the botulism antitoxin should be administered. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that the antitoxin has a very short expiration date. The antitoxin can be created by the CDC, but once created it is only viable for a brief period. Therefore, the antitoxin is only available from the CDC, because only the CDC has the ability to manufacture the product and send it to local hospitals before it expires.
To get the antitoxin, go to the emergency department of a local hospital. A health care provider will diagnosis the botulism intoxication and contact the CDC. After a brief discussion of the case, the CDC will release the antitoxin and send it to the local hospital. In the meantime, patients will be provided with supportive therapy to combat the effects of the disease. Supportive therapy includes procedures to ensure that the patient is breathing properly, IV fluids to keep the patient hydrated and medications to ease distress or pain.
Botulism Vaccine
According to the WHO, a vaccine can be used to combat or prevent the disease. The vaccine works by helping the patient's immune system produce antibodies to fight off the bacteria and toxin. However, the botulism vaccine has not been studied sufficiently. The efficacy of the vaccine in combating the disease as well as the possible side effects are still not apparent.
Airway Support
Botulism can cause paralysis of the diaphragm or other muscles used for breathing. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, patients who are experiencing severe difficulty while trying to breathe should be hospitalized. By inserting a tube into the patient's mouth or nose, a secure, clear airway is established. Then, breathing support via manual methods or using a mechanical ventilator is provided.
Intravenous (IV) Fluid Therapy
Some patients suffering from botulism poisoning experience swallowing difficulties. This can lead to the inability to eat properly. Patients suffering from this effect of the disease are given IV fluids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. IV fluids, which are injected directly into a patient's bloodstream, can provide nutrition to patients who are having difficulty swallowing.
