Certain countries consider pufferfish a delicacy and prepare it in different ways. In Japan, pufferfish, also known as fugu fish, is exclusively served in restaurants where chefs have undergone rigorous training to process it. This is not because pufferfish are challenging to prepare but because they contain a highly toxic poison.

Pufferfish is known for being a unique food with a delicious flavor, but it must be prepared properly. Toxins found naturally in pufferfish as a means of self-protection can cause fatal poisoning.

Types of toxin found in pufferfish

Tetrodotoxin is a potent type of toxin found in the liver and sexual organs of some fish, including pufferfish. Tetrodotoxin poisoning in humans occurs when fish meat or organs containing the toxin are improperly prepared or consumed.

Tetrodotoxins interfere with the transmission of signals from nerves to muscles. This toxin can cause paralysis and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, tetrodotoxin poisoning is fatal.

Experienced and trained chefs should prepare and serve pufferfish due to the high risk of this extremely dangerous toxin.

Read more: Symptoms Of Bacillus Cereus Bacteria Poisoning.

Signs of pufferfish poisoning

Symptoms of pufferfish poisoning typically appear 20 minutes to 3 hours after eating improperly prepared and served pufferfish. Symptoms experienced may differ from person to person, including:

• Numbness on the lips and tongue
• Numbness on the face
• Light or floating sensation
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Diarrhea
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty walking
• Widespread muscle weakness
• Seizures
• Respiratory distress
• Mental disorders
• Heart arrhythmia

In severe cases, pufferfish poisoning can result in death. Death can occur as soon as 4-6 hours after symptoms of poisoning appear.

Read more: Signs Of Poisoning After Eating Eggs

How to deal with pufferfish poisoning

If you or someone you know has been poisoned by pufferfish, follow the steps below:

• Seek medical attention as soon as possible or transport the poisoned individual to a hospital
• Do not delay treatment; every second counts when dealing with pufferfish poisoning
• If the tetrodotoxin has reached the central nervous system, vomiting food forcefully may worsen the condition
• Monitor vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration, and report any changes that occur

Pufferfish poisoning cannot be treated on its own. If you or someone you know has pufferfish poisoning, you should seek medical attention immediately. Avoid self-treating poisoning with homemade remedies like drinking whole cow's milk or fresh coconut water. The best course of action is to seek medical attention at a hospital.

Do you have any questions about fish poisoning or other food poisoning? You can access health consultation services by downloading the Ai Care app from the App Store or Play Store.

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