What Is Infant Botulism?

baby botulism is an illness that can happen when a baby ingests ( takes in ) toxins from a type of bacteria. Babies with baby botulism ( BAH-chuh-liz-im ) can have muscle helplessness, a fallible cry, and trouble breathe. They need to be treated in a hospital. With early diagnosis and proper medical care, a baby should fully recover from the illness .

What Causes Infant Botulism?

baby botulism is caused by a toxin ( a poison ) from Clostridium botulinus bacteria, which live in dirty and debris. The bacteria can get on surfaces like carpets and floors and besides can contaminate honey. That ‘s why babies younger than 1 year old should never be given honey .
These bacteria are harmless to older kids and adults. That ‘s because their mature digestive systems can move the toxins through the body before they cause damage .
baby botulism normally affects babies who are 3 weeks to 6 months old. But all babies are at risk for it until their first gear birthday.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Infant Botulism?

Babies with baby botulism might have :

  • constipation (often the first sign that parents notice)
  • weak facial muscles that makes their face look “flat”
  • a weak cry
  • weak muscles in the arms, legs, and neck
  • breathing problems
  • trouble swallowing with a lot of drooling

They besides might not feed well or move adenine much as common .

How Is Infant Botulism Diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose baby botulism by asking about the baby ‘s symptoms. They ‘ll do an examination, and might order tests to see how the baby ‘s muscles are working.

How Is Infant Botulism Treated?

Babies with baby botulism need care in a hospital, normally in the intensifier care unit ( ICU ). The health care team will try to limit the problems the toxin causes in the baby ‘s body .
Doctors treat baby botulism with an antitoxin called botulism immune globulin intravenous (BIGIV). They give this to babies equally soon as potential. Babies with botulism who get BIGIV recover sooner and spend less meter in the hospital than babies who do n’t.

If the toxin affects the rest muscles, a baby might need to use a breathe machine ( ventilator ) for a few weeks until they get stronger. It besides can affect the swallow muscles, so babies normally need intravenous ( IV ) fluids or feedings through a tube to get nourishment .

Can Infant Botulism Be Prevented?

Experts do n’t know why some infants get botulism while others do n’t .
One manner to reduce the risk of botulism is to not give infants honey or any processed foods with honey before their beginning birthday. Honey is a prove source of the bacteria. If you have questions about other products to avoid, ask your sophisticate .