Mushroom poisoning: symptoms appear within 4-8 hours, and severe cases lead to liver failure by day three or four.
Mushroom poisoning can have serious consequences, often appearing within 4 to 8 hours of consumption. Doctors from the University Clinical Hospital in Wrocław emphasize the importance of early medical intervention, as initial symptoms may disappear only to return more severely later.
The Danger of Misidentification
Many poisonings happen when edible mushrooms are mistaken for toxic ones. Common cases involve people mistaking inedible mushrooms like false parasol (pseudo-chanterelle) for safe ones. In severe cases, liver and kidney failure can develop by the third or fourth day, sometimes requiring urgent liver transplants.
Mushrooms, despite their culinary appeal, are hard to digest, especially in large quantities. Doctors also warn against giving mushrooms to children under 12, as their bodies are even more sensitive to toxins. Surprisingly, experienced mushroom hunters face the highest risk due to overconfidence in their knowledge.
Mushroom poisoning can happen to anyone, so caution and immediate medical attention are essential.