Prognosis of Botulism


Botulism is a very serious condition, which can be fatal or lead to serious health complications if left unchecked. The symptoms can also last for a long period of time. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee that a patient will recover even after getting the required medical help. However, early treatment of this condition can improve the chances of a complete recovery to a great extent. Given below are a few facts on the prognosis of Botulism:

  • In the last 5 decades, the percentage of the people who have died due to Botulism has dropped from around 50% to approximately 8%
  • Timely and proper medical intervention, usually using antitoxins, can help reduce the risks of death by up to 25%.
  • This condition leads to paralysis of the respiratory muscles, which could be fatal and is responsible for around 70% of the deaths in untreated patients.
It is important to bear in mind that patients who have suffered from this condition can lead a more or less normal life once the recover.