Severe botulism leads to reduced movement of the muscles of respiration, and hence problems with gas exchange. This may be experienced as dyspnea (difficulty breathing), but when severe can lead to respiratory failure, due to the buildup of unexhaled carbon dioxide and its resultant depressant effect on the brain. This may lead to respiratory compromise and death if untreated.
Severe botulism leads to reduced movement of the muscles of respiration and hence problems with gas exchange. This may be experienced as dyspnea (difficulty breathing), but when severe can lead to respiratory failure due to the buildup of unexhaled carbo,n, dioxide and its resultant depressant effect on the brain. This may lead to respiratory compromise and death if untreated.