To prevent botulism, it is recommended to boil canned food before consumption, said the chief freelance specialist Infectious diseases of the Ministry of Health Vladimir Chulanov.
According to Chulanov, botulinum toxin, which causes botulism, can be present not only in canned products, fish, meat and mushrooms, but also in fermented foods.
“Botulinum toxin can be found in canned vegetables, sauerkraut, salted and smoked fish, as well as sausages, especially those packaged in the intestine,” he explained for the TASS news agency.
To prevent botulism, it is recommended to boil canned food before consumption. When preparing home canned food, it is important to thoroughly wash the food and containers, as well as follow the sterilization regime. It is better to choose marinating and salting, providing air access to the container.
“Keep an eye on the expiration dates of foods and canned goods, and do not consume canned food that shows signs of bloating. If, after eating foods that may be a source of botulism, you feel unwell, you should immediately seek medical help and call an ambulance,” added the Ministry of Health expert.
General practitioner Tatyana Zakharova told specially for MedicForum, about the first symptoms of botulism.
“Botulism is a serious and potentially fatal disease caused by a toxin produced by the bacteria Clostridium botulinum. Because botulism is a medical emergency, it is important to know the first symptoms so you can seek help in time,” says Zakharova.
First symptoms botulism
Dry mouth: this is one of the first signs of botulism. The dryness may be so severe that it becomes difficult for the person to speak or swallow.
Vision problems: double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids.
Swallowing and speech disorders: The affected person may have difficulty swallowing and feel weakness in the throat muscles, resulting in slurred speech.
Muscle weakness: Weakness begins in the upper body and may spread downwards. The patient may have difficulty lifting their head or moving their arms.
Respiratory impairment: The toxin affects the muscles involved in breathing, which can lead to acute respiratory failure.
Constipation and bloating: Botulism can cause paralysis of the intestines, leading to retention of stool and gas.
Less common but possible symptoms
Nausea and vomiting: these symptoms may occur, but they are not the main signs of botulism.
Diarrhea: rare, but can sometimes occur.
Important recommendations
< br>“If you or someone you love has any of the symptoms described above, especially after consuming canned or fermented foods, you should seek immediate medical attention.”
Do not self-medicate, botulism requires specialized treatment, including antitoxin administration and support breathing in severe cases.
Earlier, MedicForum wrote about the dangers of ultra-processed foods.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.