What are the symptoms of foodborne botulism?
Foodborne botulism typically begins with blurred or double vision, dry mouth and difficulty swallowing. Vomiting and diarrhea may be present early in the illness. The illness may progress to symmetrical flaccid (floppy) paralysis and may lead to difficulty in breathing. How is foodborne botulism diagnosed? Foodborne botulism is diagnosed by finding the toxin in the blood or the suspect canned food. It may also be diagnosed by finding the Clostridium botulinum spores in the food or in a stool culture. What is the treatment for foodborne botulism? There is an anti-toxin available which can stop the progression of the poisoning. It is most successful if given early in the illness before the toxin has become completely absorbed by the nerve endings. Depending upon the seriousness of the illness, recovery may take days to months. Patients with severe foodborne botulism may require hospitalization. Is an individual with foodborne botulism infectious to others? No. Foodborne botulism is not s
