Botulism

Botulism is a rare but serious illness that results in paralysis and is caused by the botulinum toxin that is produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. The toxin can get into the body in a variety of ways which all lead to paralysis. In the most extreme cases, botulism can paralyze the muscles of the breathing apparatus and cause respiratory failure and, eventually, death. Due to this complication, all cases of botulism are treated as medical emergencies.

When a person is first affected by botulism, the muscles that receive their directions from the cranial nerves are the first that lose their abilities. This group includes the 12 nerves of the eyes, the facial muscles, and the muscles that control chewing and swallowing. Symptoms of early botulism infections include double vision, droopy eyelids, loss of facial expressions, swallowing problems, and even difficulty talking.

After the facial muscles are affected, weakness spreads from the face to the arms and then the legs. Eventually, if not stopped, botulism is able to reduce the movement of the muscles that allow us to breathe. This leads to respiratory failure which can result in a coma and even death.

There are four ways that botulism can get into the body. The most common form in Western countries is infant botulism. The other forms are foodborne botulism, wound botulism, and inhalation botulism.

Contact a Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyer

If you have been affected by botulism poisoning through food or botched Botox, contact a Philadelphia personal injury lawyer of Lowenthal & Abrams at 215-238-1130.