However the main function of the small intestine is the absorption of the small food particles resulting from digestion. It contains many villi which increase the surface area for absorption. The large intestine moves the material that has not been digested from the small intestine and absorbs water.
Respiratory failure caused by botulism can result in death. About 50 years ago half of all patients with botulism died, compared to just 8% today. Patients with severe symptoms may need a breathing machine, intensive medical and nursing care for several months. Fatigue and shortness of breath may linger for many years.
Neurotoxin, synthesized and secreted by Clostridium botulinum bacteria (and a few other Clostridium species), cause botulism. The toxin causes the disease by blocking the release of acetylcholine from motor nerve endings.This result produces the symptoms associated with botulism.ood-borne botulism can be especially dangerous because many people can be poisoned by eating even small amounts of neurotoxin-contaminated food. A botulism outbreak is a public-health emergency that is reportable to the U.S. government.