How To Recognize Infant Botulism

Common Symptoms Of Infant Botulism

Infant botulism is a rare, but extremely serious disease.  It can be treated, but the baby needs medical attention immediately- so it is important that you are aware of the common symptoms and warning signs of infant botulism.

The symptoms of infant botulism (as well as other forms of botulism) are most likely to start occurring about 18 to 36 hours after the bacteria is consumed.  The first symptom that occurs in most cases of botulism is constipation- often not a huge concern of parents because it is a fairly common issue for babies.  A good rule of thumb to follow regarding constipation is to call your baby’s doctor if the infant has not had a bowel movement in three days.

Flat facial expression and weak sucking during feedings and weak cries are all common symptoms of infant botulism.  If you notice decreased movements or if the baby seems to have trouble swallowing, perhaps with excessive drooling- these are strong indicators that the baby has infant botulism.  Muscle weakness and breathing problems are warning signs that should never be ignored.

Preventing Infant Botulism

The first rule for preventing infant botulism is to avoid giving a child under the age of one honey or corn syrup.  Sometimes people think putting a spoonful of these foods into the babies bottles will help relieve constipation, or help them sleep through the night sooner, but honey and corn syrup are often laced with the toxins that cause infant botulism.  After about a year of age, babies have developed defense mechanisms for the botulism that comes from honey and corn syrup, and can move the bacteria out of their bodies before it causes damage- but in younger infants, honey and corn syrup should be avoided completely.

The bacteria that cause infant botulism are found everywhere in the environment.  For example, the dust and dirt and air all contain botulism causing bacteria.  Some babies will consume the airborne bacteria and contract botulism; others won’t- and there is no real explanation as to why that is.  You can do your part by keeping a clean house for your baby, and disinfecting toys as frequently as possible.

How Infant Botulism Is Treated

If your baby does show signs of infant botulism, take him or her to the hospital immediately.  The babies are usually treated in the intensive care unit.  Doctors may place ventilators on the baby to help the baby breath since the toxins can cause difficulty breathing.  Most likely, a baby treated for infant botulism will receive intravenous fluids instead of bottles because it is often difficulty for a baby to swallow.  Once the toxin has worn off, babies with infant botulism typically recover fully provided medical care was obtained in time.

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