Botulism is a rare but serious disease caused by a nerve toxin produced by clostridium botulinum bacteria. Botulism can be food borne or occur from an infection in a wound. Babies can get botulism from eating foods that contain the bacteria; infant botulism is the most common form of the disease, according to the Mayo Clinic, and usually occurs in babies less than 6 months old. The symptoms of botulism are caused by nerve damage and can be severe. Symptoms usually appear with 18 to 36 hours, the Centers for Disease Control reports.
Abdominal Symptoms
The first sign of infant botulism is often constipation, the Mayo Clinic states. Nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramping may also occur.
Respiratory Symptoms
People with botulism may be short of breath or may have difficulty swallowing and speaking. Babies may have a weak or altered cry, or be unable to suck on a bottle.
Muscle Weakness
Every area of the body can be affected by the muscle weakness botulism causes. Babies may not be able to control head movements. Drooping eyelids and facial muscles, slurred speech, dry mouth and lethargy may occur. Adults may complain of double vision or blurred vision. Normal reflexes, such as the gag reflex, may be lost.
Paralysis
If botulism progresses, paralysis of the extremities, trunk and respiratory muscles can occur, the CDC states. The person may be unable to move or breathe for himself. This is a medical emergency that needs immediate attention. Severe paralysis of the respiratory system can lead to a need for mechanical ventilation, the use of a respirator to maintain breathing when a person can't breathe for himself.
