Botulism is a form of food poisoning, although much more serious. And is that in addition to diarrhea and vomiting, it can also cause serious muscle and respiratory problems.
The cause is botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, and sometimes by strains of Clostridium butyricum and Clostridium baratii.
Botulism symptoms appear 18 to 36 hours later from eating a contaminated food, and include severe fatigue, muscle weakness, dizziness, blurred or double vision, dry mouth, and difficulty swallowing and speaking.
If left untreated, it can cause paralysis of the respiratory muscles, arms, legs, and trunk. If you experience any of those symptoms, head to the hospital immediately, since, otherwise, sequelae may remain and even have a fatal outcome. If treatment is not started quickly, the mortality rate is high (5-10%).
The prevention of botulism is something that corresponds mainly to the food industry, but to a lesser degree also to consumers. If you pack your own food, you have to make sure you know how to do it safely.
Given that common sources of this unusual disease are preserved or fermented foodsNever buy cans or jars that are dented or rusty. And throw away those whose lids are swollen or open too easily. If in doubt, don't eat it.
It should be noted that botulism it can also be caused by contamination from open wounds, as well as by the presence of the toxin in cosmetic treatments or for neuromosuclear diseases.