14 Symptoms of Botulism

Botulism is not very common. However, this does not mean that you cannot contract it or that you will never encounter it. Botulism is classified as one of the most serious illnesses and is transmitted through contaminated soil, food, and open wounds.

In some cases it can be difficult to notice, which is why it may become deadly. If it is not treated properly it can cause breathing malfunctions, paralysis, and even death. Botulism is caused by a toxin that is produced by clostridium botulinum, which is a potent bacterium.

The reason that botulism is rare is that the bacteria that cause it only survive in places that do not have oxygen. Chemical facilities, home-canned foods, as well as other places are great breeding grounds. Since botulism is so dangerous it is important to know the symptoms of the condition so that treatment can begin as quickly as possible.

1. Loss of Appetite

Of the people affected by botulism, 65 percent are infants. The main reason for this is because infants often eat a lot of canned and processed foods. These types of foods have the highest likelihood of being contaminated. This means that the chances of infants becoming infected with dangerous bacterium is higher.

If you notice that your infant is not eating as much or simply does not seem hungry, it could be a sign that there is something wrong. An infant that does not feel like eating could be suffering from any number of ailments, one of which is botulism. If your infant is not eating as much or does not seem hungry it is important to take them to the doctor as soon as possible. This loss of appetite affects adults as well and is something worth noting, especially if it is accompanied by some of the other symptoms on this list.

2. Constipation

Most of the symptoms of botulism are digestive in nature. The reason for this is in most cases the bacteria enters the body through the mouth. Constipation may occur because botulism will first attack the esophagus. As the bacteria attack the esophagus it causes the entire digestive process to malfunction. In fact, a person suffering from constipation may not even have the slightest hint of a stool.

The malfunction of the digestive system means that the food that you eat is not being converted into nutrients and waste. If you have noticed that you are not having normal bowel movements and you are taking laxatives and probiotics and they do not help, it is a good idea to visit a doctor. Constipation is one of the first and quickest symptoms to come up, so if you catch it early the healing and the treatment process can be much easier.