Survival and Complications Today, fewer than 5 of every 100 people with botulism die. Even with antitoxin and intensive medical and nursing care, some people with botulism die from respiratory failure. Others die from infections or other problems caused by being paralyzed for weeks or months.
What are the long term effects of botulism?
Long-Term Effects of Botulism These long-term effects most often include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, dry mouth, and difficulty performing strenuous tasks. Patients also report a generally less happy and peaceful psychological state than before their illness.
Can you fully recover from botulism?
Many people recover fully, but it may take months and extended rehabilitation therapy. A different type of antitoxin, known as botulism immune globulin, is used to treat infants.
What are complications experienced with botulism?
The most immediate danger is that you won't be able to breathe, which is the most common cause of death in botulism. Other complications, which may require rehabilitation, may include: Difficulty speaking. Trouble swallowing.
Is botulism irreversible?
[8] The affected nerve terminals do not degenerate, but the blockage of neurotransmitter release is irreversible. Function can be recovered by the sprouting of nerve terminals and formation of new synaptic contacts; this usually takes two to three months.
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