Clostridium botulinum is a dangerous bacterium that can cause a serious infection called botulism. The bacterium can be ingested by eating contaminated food or it can enter an open sore, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Botulism is a rare infection, striking only about 110 U.S. residents each year, according to the National Library of Medicine. Most of the victims are babies who have ingested honey or corn syrup.
Gastrointestinal Symptoms
People with botulism typically begin feeling nauseated and vomit heavily. They may also experience severe and painful abdominal cramping. Swelling of the abdomen, constipation and diarrhea may also occur.
Neurological Symptoms
The most common symptoms of botulism are neurological, including dizziness and significant weakness in the muscles throughout the body, including the arms and legs. Vision may become blurry, and the eyelids may start to visibly droop.
Swallowing and Speaking
The mouth often becomes very dry as a result of botulism, and patients may have a difficult time swallowing. Speech may also become difficult and more slurred, and sufferers may find it difficult to breathe when the muscles of the respiratory system become weakened.
Botulism in Babies
Symptoms may be more difficult to pinpoint in babies, who can't tell you what's wrong. Their muscles may seem particularly lax and weak. Their cries may be different, sounding tired and weaker than normal. They may be lethargic and lose their appetite. Constipation is another warning sign.
When Symptoms Appear
Often, signs of botulism appear within just a few hours--as little as four hours, says the World Health Organization. But symptoms can take much longer to appear--up to about eight days after the patient comes into contact with the bacteria.
Treating Botulism
If you see signs of botulism, it's important to seek diagnosis and treatment. A medication that works against the effects of the toxins released by the bacteria can be administered. People who have difficulty breathing may be put on a ventilator until their muscles recover from the illness, and those who are too weak to swallow and eat may receive a feeding tube. Without treatment, the CDC says, paralysis or death may result. Up to 10 percent of all cases of botulism may be fatal, says the WHO.
Long-term Effects
Complications from botulism may occur, including persistent weakness of the muscles and neurological issues that could last as long as a year. Another infection could develop, including pneumonia caused by aspirating food into the lungs.
