Saturday 10 March 2012

Botulism symptoms and what to do when you see the signs


Botulism is a grave and serious form of food poisoning that is toxic to the nervous system. Symptoms will occur within a few days of intake of the toxin. If you notice any of these symptoms, you will need to be evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible in order to avoid life-threatening complications.

Botulism symptoms

Symptoms of botulism can include any combination of the following:

weakness
fatigue
blurred or double vision
drooping is yet another
dry mouth
sore throat
his speech slurred
difficulty swallowing
nausea
vomiting
diarrhoea
Infants may present with a weak cry, and inability to suck.

What causes botulism?

This serious form of food poisoning caused by ingesting food contaminated by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. This bacteria can grow in improperly canned or raw or preserved foods, especially meats (ham and sausage), or in certain vegetables (beans).

Bacteria will be destroyed if the food is cooked in 176 F (80 ° C) for 30 minutes or boiled in 212 F (100 C) for 10 minutes. Raw honey should not be given to infants under 1 year old, because they could cause botulism.

Diagnosis and treatment for botulism

Diagnosis of botulism first comes from the observation of the aforementioned symptoms. Botulism symptoms are noticed when it is critical that you contact your healthcare facilities for assessment by a doctor as this condition can be fatal if not treated properly. The medical assessment should include a discussion as to the probable source of the toxin, an investigation into what the person has consumed over the past few days. In addition to a physical examination, blood tests may be used to make a full diagnosis.

When it comes to treatment, early diagnosis and treatment with antitoxini it is very important. An outbreak of botulism is a public health emergency and the local Health Department should be notified if discovered the source of botulism contamination can be brought under control. Hospitalization may be necessary depending on the extent of the symptoms.







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