Botulism Food Poisoning
Victim of Botulism? Our Pennsylvania Attorneys Can Help Protect Your Rights
Botulism, while rare, is a serious illness caused by a nerve toxin that is produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Botulism is a type of food poisoning that can leave you paralyzed and steal your independence.
There are three different types of botulism, including foodborne botulism. Foodborne botulism can be especially dangerous, because many people can become poisoned by eating the contaminated food before officials determine the source.
Foodborne botulism is usually caused by improperly processed home-canned foods, but may appear in manufactured food products as well.
Foodborne Botulism - What Are the Symptoms?
Symptoms of botulism can occur very quickly. Generally it only takes 18- 36 hours for symptoms to appear after eating a contaminated food. However, symptoms can occur as early as 6 hours after ingestion, or as late as 10 days. Symptoms for botulism include:
For adults:
- Double or blurred vision
- Drooping eyelids
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Dry mouth
- Muscle weakness
For infants:
- Lethargy
- Feeding poorly
- Constipation
- Weak cry
- Poor muscle tone
What Should I Do if I've Been Sickened by Botulism?
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, seek medical attention immediately. If left untreated, botulism can progress and paralyze your respiratory muscles, arms, legs, and upper body.
When receiving medical treatment, ask your physician to do the appropriate tests for the identification of the botulinum toxin and the bacteria that causes botulism.
Additionally, if you believe you were infected by food you purchased at your local grocery store, save the packaging, receipt, and UPC code. The packaging can be tested for the bacteria, the receipt will confirm where you bought the item, and the UPC code will help track any other contaminated foods.
Should I Contact a Food Poisoning Lawyer?
While most people recover from food poisoning in a couple of days, foods contaminated with botulism-causing bacterium can lead to serious illnesses that require hospitalization. Some people can suffer permanent and serious medical problems, including paralysis.
For those who became victims of botulism, the effects can be devastating. They may no longer have the same independence they once enjoyed. One day they ate a food they had no idea was contaminated, and the next their entire life has changed. Not to mention, the medical bills and missed work time can take a huge financial toll on food poisoning victims. If you became paralyzed, you may not be able to return to the job you had before you suffered from botulism.
At Edgar Snyder & Associates we have over 35 years of experience helping food poisoning victims. You may have a case. We're ready to help get you the compensation you deserve for what you've been through, and for your pain and suffering.
Get a Free Legal Consultation of Your Food Poisoning Claim Today
Call us toll-free at 412-394-1000, or fill out the form at the top of this page for a free legal consultation. Remember, evidence disappears quickly – especially with food poisoning cases. There's no obligation to use our services, so don't hesitate.
If you suffered from botulism food poisoning, rely on Edgar Snyder & Associates to help you take back your life.