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Symptoms of Botulism (Cont.)

Serious Symptoms of Botulism

If a healthcare provider cannot identify and treat the botulism early, the symptoms of botulism progress to paralysis of the:
 
  • Legs
  • Arms
  • Trunk
  • Respiratory system.
     
People with respiratory symptoms may have to use a ventilator to help them breathe until they recover from the toxin, which normally takes 2 to 8 weeks.
 
Death occurs in 5 percent to 10 percent of cases of botulism.
 

Symptoms of Botulism: Summary

Botulinum toxin is one of the most poisonous substances known to exist. For this reason, anyone with possible symptoms of botulism should receive emergency treatment, and public health officials should be notified to locate the source of the contamination and prevent other cases.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD