Summary about Disease
Quamash poisoning occurs from the ingestion of certain species of plants in the Camassia genus, specifically Camassia quamash (Common Camas) and related species. While some Camassia species have edible bulbs when properly prepared, they can be easily confused with the highly toxic *Zigadenus* species (Death Camas), which often grow in the same areas. The toxins in Death Camas can cause severe gastrointestinal distress, neurological symptoms, and even death. This is not a contagious disease.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Quamash (Death Camas) poisoning can vary in severity and may include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Abdominal pain
Diarrhea
Weakness
Sweating
Salivation
Dizziness
Muscle tremors
Seizures
Low blood pressure
Slow heart rate
Respiratory depression
Causes
The cause of Quamash (Death Camas) poisoning is the ingestion of Zigadenus species plants, often mistaken for edible *Camassia quamash*. The toxins responsible include steroidal alkaloids, such as zygacine.
Medicine Used
Treatment for Quamash (Death Camas) poisoning is primarily supportive and may include:
Decontamination: Activated charcoal may be administered to absorb any remaining toxins in the gastrointestinal tract. Gastric lavage may be considered early after ingestion
Fluid and Electrolyte Replacement: Intravenous fluids may be given to correct dehydration and electrolyte imbalances caused by vomiting and diarrhea.
Antiemetics: Medications to reduce nausea and vomiting.
Atropine: May be used to treat bradycardia (slow heart rate).
Vasopressors: Medications to increase blood pressure if hypotension (low blood pressure) is present.
Anticonvulsants: Medications to control seizures if they occur.
Respiratory Support: Mechanical ventilation may be necessary if respiratory depression is severe.
Is Communicable
No, Quamash (Death Camas) poisoning is not communicable. It is caused by ingesting a toxic plant and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Plant Identification: Thoroughly learn to identify edible Camassia quamash* and distinguish it from poisonous *Zigadenus* (Death Camas) species. If unsure, do not consume.
Harvesting Practices: Be cautious when harvesting wild plants. Obtain expert guidance if you are not experienced.
Education: Educate others about the dangers of mistaking Death Camas for edible plants.
Avoid Wild Consumption: It is safest to avoid consuming wild plants unless you are an expert in plant identification.
How long does an outbreak last?
Quamash (Death Camas) poisoning is not an outbreak. It is a case-by-case incident that occurs when someone ingests the toxic plant. The duration of symptoms depends on the amount ingested and the individual's response, but it typically lasts from several hours to a few days with proper medical care.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Quamash (Death Camas) poisoning is typically based on:
History: A history of ingesting wild plants, especially if there is suspicion of Camas consumption.
Symptoms: The presence of characteristic symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, neurological symptoms, and cardiovascular abnormalities.
Plant Identification: If possible, identifying the plant that was ingested.
Laboratory Tests: While there isn't a specific test for Death Camas toxins, blood tests can assess electrolyte imbalances, kidney function, and liver function. Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess heart rhythm abnormalities.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary depending on the amount of toxin ingested and individual sensitivity:
Within 30 minutes to a few hours: Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea typically begin.
Within a few hours: Weakness, sweating, salivation, and dizziness may develop.
Several hours: Muscle tremors, seizures, low blood pressure, and slow heart rate may occur.
Severe cases: Respiratory depression and coma can occur within hours of ingestion.
Important Considerations
Immediate Medical Attention: Seek immediate medical attention if Quamash (Death Camas) poisoning is suspected.
Plant Sample: If possible, bring a sample of the plant that was ingested to the hospital for identification.
Supportive Care: Treatment is primarily supportive, focusing on managing symptoms and preventing complications.
Misidentification: Educate yourself and others about the risks of misidentifying wild plants.
Prevention: Prevention is the best approach. Only consume wild plants that have been positively identified by an expert.