What are the symptoms of solanine poisoning?
Nov 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Solanine poisoning is mostly caused by consuming unripe, sprouted, or green potatoes. Symptoms are varied and mainly include gastrointestinal discomfort, neurological abnormalities, eye symptoms, skin reactions, and effects on the respiratory and circulatory systems. The onset of symptoms is related to the amount consumed; larger quantities result in more acute and severe symptoms. To prevent solanine poisoning, avoid eating sprouted or green potatoes.
Solanine poisoning is mostly caused by consuming immature, sprouted, or green-colored potatoes. Symptoms vary widely and mainly include gastrointestinal discomfort, neurological abnormalities, eye symptoms, skin reactions, and effects on the respiratory and circulatory systems. The onset of symptoms is related to the amount consumed; larger quantities lead to more rapid and severe symptoms. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Gastrointestinal discomfort: This is the earliest and most common symptom, typically appearing within minutes to several hours after ingestion. Patients may experience nausea and vomiting, with vomitus consisting mostly of gastric contents. Some individuals also suffer from severe abdominal pain and diarrhea, which is often watery.
2. Neurological abnormalities: As poisoning progresses, the toxin affects the central nervous system. Patients may develop dizziness, headache, fatigue, numbness, and weakness in limbs. In severe cases, restlessness, confusion, convulsions, and even coma can occur. These result from disrupted neural signal transmission, impairing both physical movement and consciousness.
3. Eye symptoms: Some patients exhibit ocular abnormalities such as blurred vision and photophobia. Pupils may abnormally constrict or dilate. These changes occur because the toxin affects nerves and muscles in the eyes, disrupting visual function and regulation.
4. Skin reactions: A small number of sensitive individuals may develop itching and red rashes after contact with or consumption of solanine-containing foods. Rashes usually appear around the mouth or at contact sites and may spread throughout the body in severe cases, accompanied by a mild burning sensation. This represents an allergic or irritant response to the toxin.
5. Respiratory and circulatory effects: In severe poisoning, the toxin can suppress the respiratory center and cardiovascular system, leading to difficulty breathing, chest tightness, shallow and rapid pulse, and decreased blood pressure. Without prompt intervention, this condition can be life-threatening and requires immediate emergency treatment.
To prevent solanine poisoning, avoid eating sprouted or green potatoes. If a potato has only slightly sprouted, completely remove the sprouts and any surrounding green tissue, and ensure thorough cooking before consumption.
