
Botulism happens when the bacteria produces a poison that attacks your body’s nervous system
The US Food and Drug Administration has recalled several brands of canned tuna sold at Trader Joe's, Kroger, Costco, and many more over potential bacteria contamination. According to the federal agency, the “easy open” pull tab can lid on the recalled products has a manufacturing defect. Over time, the seal of the lids may become compromised and allow for contamination of Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that can cause botulism.
Botulism is a rare but serious illness that occurs when the body's nervous system is attacked by a toxin and is potentially fatal.
The FDA has warned consumers not to use the recalled canned tuna, even if it does not look or smell spoilt. The agency has asked people to immediately seek medical attention if they begin to feel unwell after consuming from the can.
What is botulism?
According to doctors, botulism happens when the bacteria produces a poison that attacks your body’s nervous system. If left untreated, it can be fatal.
Even though botulism poisoning is rare, you should immediately seek emergency medical services if you or your child develops the symptoms of this condition.
What happens in botulism?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, Clostridium botulinum toxins attack your nerves, leading to weakness and paralysis of your muscles, like those that help you move, talk, and swallow. If the toxins attack the nerves that control your breathing, it can be fatal. There are several different types of botulism, with the most common kinds including foodborne botulism, infant botulism, and wound botulism.
Foodborne botulism is the most common fo which normally occurs when homemade canned foods are improperly preserved or stored. Other sources of foodborne botulism include:
- Oils infused with herbs
- Potatoes baked in aluminum foil
- Canned cheese sauces
- Bottled garlic
- Canned tomatoes
- Carrot juice
- Foods kept warm or left unrefrigerated for too long
Signs and symptoms of botulism
Doctors say the symptoms of botulism range from mild to severe and can develop anywhere from three to 30 days after exposure to Clostridium botulinum spores. A few signs include:
- Drooping eyelids
- Loss of facial expression
- Constipation
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Double or blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty swallowing
- Breathlessness
- Weakness or paralysis in arms and legs
- Nausea and vomiting
According to experts, the symptoms of botulism in older children and adults usually begin in the muscles of your face, eyes, and throat. Without treatment, symptoms can spread to other parts of your body.
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