The treatment of botulism should be done in the hospital and involves the administration of a serum against the toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum and the stomach and intestinal lavage, to eliminate any trace of contaminants.
Botulism is a disease caused by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which can be found in soil and in poorly maintained foods, which can cause severe symptoms that can result in death within a few hours according to the amount of toxin produced by this bacterium. Understand botulism, symptoms and how the diagnosis is made.
To prevent contamination by this bacterium, it is recommended that properly sanitized foods are consumed and in good conditions of consumption
How is the treatment done?
The treatment for botulism should preferably be done in a hospital environment, usually in the ICU, as it aims to neutralize the action of the toxin produced by the bacteria in the body, being important that the patient be monitored and prevent the disease progression.
Usually the treatment consists of the application of an anti-botulinum serum, also called antitoxin, and should be done as soon as possible so that the chances of cure increase. The anti-botulinum serum corresponds to heterologous antibodies derived from equines, and may cause hypersensitivity reactions when administered, therefore it is necessary to follow the patient in the hospital.
In addition, it is recommended to perform stomach and intestinal lavage to eliminate any remaining contaminated food. Learn how bowel washing is done.
Life support measures, such as using breathing apparatus, monitoring heart function, proper nutrition and prevention of bedsores are also part of the treatment.
How to prevent
To prevent contamination by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum it is important to pay attention to the consumption, distribution and commercialization of food. Thus, it is recommended:
- Avoid eating processed foods with liquid inside;
- Do not store food at high temperatures;
- Avoid eating canned foods, especially those that are in stuffed, damaged or with altered smell and appearance;
- Thoroughly clean the food before consuming it;
- Boil canned or canned foods for at least 5 minutes before being consumed.
Do not offer honey to the baby less than 1 year old, because honey is a good way to spread the spores of this bacteria, which can result in the baby's botulism, since the immune system is not fully developed. Learn more about baby botulism.
