Botulism is a rare, life-threatening poisoning caused by toxins produced by the anaerobic bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Botulism toxins, usually consumed in food, can weaken or paralyze muscles. Botulism may begin with dry mouth, difficulty swallowing and talking, double vision, and inability to focus the eyes or with digestive symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Doctors examine samples of blood, stool, or tissue from a wound, and electromyography may be done. If ... Botulism is a rare and potentially fatal illness caused by botulinum toxin, which is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. The disease begins with weakness, blurred vision, feeling tired, and trouble speaking. This may then be followed by weakness of the arms, chest muscles, and legs. Vomiting, swelling of the abdomen, and diarrhea may also occur. The disease does not usually affect consciousness or cause a fever. Botulism can occur in several ways. The bacterial spores which ... Botulism is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This bacterium produces a powerful neurotoxin known as botulinum toxin, which affects the nervous system and can lead to paralysis. This page provides an overview of botulism, its causes, and symptoms of botulism.
