The condition called botulism results from the toxic effects of neuromuscular poisons produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. The toxins cause paralysis and can be fatal. Prompt recognition of the symptoms of botulism and immediate medical treatment can minimize the effects.
Types
Botulism bacteria usually enter the body via improperly prepared food or a wounds. The spores in improperly preserved or canned food produce toxins. When the food is eaten, even tiny amounts of the toxins can lead to severe poisoning, according to the Mayo Clinic. Wound botulism occurs when the bacteria contaminate a cut, abrasion or puncture, and the toxins enter the bloodstream. A rare form of botulism affects babies, typically younger than 6 months, who ingest C. botulinum spores that multiply in their intestines and produce the toxins. The spores might come from honey or from contaminated soil. Any type of botulism is a medical emergency.
Time Frame
The Merck Manuals say that the symptoms of food-borne botulism come on suddenly, usually 18 to 36 hours after exposure. Symptoms of wound botulism typically develop about 10 days after the bacteria invade the injury site. Symptoms of infant botulism usually develop three to 30 days after exposure.
Effects
All types of botulism cause muscle weakness. This weakness starts in the head and then progresses down the body. Common first signs of botulism include drooping eyelids, a weak voice and difficult breathing and swallowing. Untreated botulism can cause paralysis. Respiratory paralysis is the most common cause of death. People with food-borne botulism often suffer severe vomiting and diarrhea before the muscle symptoms begin. For infants, constipation is commonly the first symptom.
Cellular Effects
According to the Merck Manuals, C. botulinum makes seven toxins. All of them inhibit a neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. Interference with acetylcholine disrupts nerve communication within muscle groups, leading to paralysis.
Recovery
Botulism anti-toxin can slow paralysis if it's taken within 72 hours of the onset of symptoms, according to the Merck Manuals. The anti-toxin inactivates botulinum toxins in the blood, but not in the nerve junctions. Thanks to advances in care for respiratory failure, less than 10 percent of those with botulism now die from it, says the Merck Manuals. Recovery from botulism and a return to normal function can take weeks, because the nerve endings must regenerate.
