organisms. Botulism (“BOT-choo-liz-um”) is a rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the body's nerves and causes difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and even death.
What type of paralysis does botulism cause?
Symptoms of foodborne botulism Foodborne botulism is characterized by descending, flaccid paralysis that can cause respiratory failure. Early symptoms include marked fatigue, weakness and vertigo, usually followed by blurred vision, dry mouth and difficulty in swallowing and speaking.
Why does botulinum cause paralysis?
Intramuscular administration of botulinum toxin acts at the neuromuscular junction to cause muscle paralysis by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine from presynaptic motor neurons.
Is botulism ascending or descending paralysis?
The clinical syndrome of botulism is highly distinctive, consisting of symmetrical cranial nerve palsies, followed by symmetrical descending flaccid paralysis that may progress to respiratory arrest [19, 35].
What damage does botulism cause?
Symptoms of botulism usually start with weakness of the muscles that control the eyes, face, mouth, and throat. This weakness may spread to the neck, arms, torso, and legs. Botulism also can weaken the muscles involved in breathing, which can lead to difficulty breathing and even death.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
How does botulism affect the muscles?Does botulism cause flaccid or spastic paralysis?
