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 rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that affects the nervous system and can cause paralysis. The bacterium Clostridium botulinum, which is found commonly in nature, produces this toxin. There are several types of botulism, including foodborne botulism, which is caused by eating foods that contain the botulinum toxin. Botulism is a serious illness that should be treated as a medical emergency. Severe cases of botulism can lead to paralysis of the breathing muscles, respiratory or heart failure and death. If not diagnosed and treated, death from respiratory failure can occur within 1 to 10 days.