Botulism
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recognize over 250 different food-borne illnesses. While the majority of these result in nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, a few of these illnesses can cause more serious problems, such as muscle paralysis. One of these dangerous types of food poisoning is botulism.
Food-borne pathogens can infect a food item during the growing, shipping, and preparation processes. Thus, it is important for every part of the food industry to handle products in a safe manner to prevent infection. If you have suffered from botulism due to improper food handling, you should not hesitate to fight back. Contact a Baltimore personal injury attorney from Belsky, Weinberg & Horowitz, LLC today at 410-234-0100 to discuss your case.
What Causes Botulism?
Botulism is a disorder caused by the toxins produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Clostridium botulinum creates a byproduct called botulinum toxin, which disrupts muscle movement. In fact, this poison causes the muscles to become flaccidly paralyzed.
Symptoms of Botulism
Botulinum toxin affects the human body in a way that makes this type of food poisoning very different from other food-related illnesses. Common symptoms of botulism include:
- Blurred vision
- Droopy eyelids
- Weakness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Slurred speech
As botulism persists, you can suffer from serious complications such as respiratory distress. You may still experienced fatigue and shortness of breath even years after your encounter with this bacterial toxin.
Contact Us
Food industry professionals know that improper handling can lead to foods becoming infected with dangerous pathogens. Botulism can cause you pain and suffering as well as high medical bills and lost wages. If you are a victim of botulism, you may be entitled to financial compensation to help you with these damages. To learn more, you should contact a Baltimore personal injury lawyer from Belsky, Weinberg & Horowitz, LLC at 410-234-0100 today.
