What causes strawberry poisoning?

Under normal circumstances, strawberry poisoning may result from consuming excessive amounts at one time, eating unwashed strawberries, strawberry allergy, acute gastroenteritis, or bacterial dysentery. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Consuming excessive amounts at one time: Strawberries contain high levels of fruit acids and dietary fiber. Eating large quantities in a short period can irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa and cause discomfort. Immediately stop consumption, drink plenty of warm water to promote metabolism, and consume mild foods such as rice porridge and noodles to reduce gastrointestinal burden.

2. Eating unwashed strawberries: Pesticide residues, insect eggs, or dirt may remain on the surface and cause irritation once ingested. Before consumption, rinse thoroughly under running water and then soak in lightly salted water for 10 minutes. If mild discomfort occurs, induce vomiting and observe symptoms carefully to avoid further intake of harmful substances.

3. Strawberry allergy: The immune system reacts to components such as plant proteins in strawberries, causing symptoms like rashes, itching, and diarrhea. Patients may take medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, loratadine syrup, or ebastine tablets as directed by a physician, and should avoid consuming strawberries or any food products containing strawberry ingredients in the future.

4. Acute gastroenteritis: Spoiled strawberries or those contaminated with E. coli can cause inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa after ingestion, leading to vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Patients may take medications such as smectite powder, norfloxacin capsules, or berberine hydrochloride tablets as prescribed, and drink oral rehydration salts in small, frequent amounts to prevent dehydration.

5. Bacterial dysentery: Infection occurs when strawberries are contaminated with Shigella bacteria, resulting in intestinal infection characterized by fever, bloody and purulent stools, and tenesmus. Patients should take medications such as levofloxacin tablets, cefixime capsules, or compound sulfamethoxazole tablets as directed by a doctor, maintain isolation, and prevent cross-infection.

When purchasing strawberries, choose fresh fruits with intact appearance. Always wash them thoroughly upon returning home. Control portion sizes during consumption, especially for children and individuals with weak gastrointestinal function, to minimize the risk of poisoning.