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.
Botulism is a serious illness that causes flaccid paralysis of muscles. It is caused by a neurotoxin, generically called botulinum toxin, produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum (and rarely by C. butyricum and C. baratii). The neurotoxin is produced by bacteria called Clostridium botulinum. 2  The neurotoxin paralyzes muscles and can be deadly. 3  There are three major types of botulism that differ in how they are acquired: food-borne, wound, and infant botulism. 4  Food-borne botulism is usually caused by eating contaminated home-canned foods.