What happens when you eat Death Cap?

Eating a Death Cap mushroom (Amanita phalloides) can lead to severe illness and potentially fatal consequences. Here's what typically happens after consuming Death Cap:

1. Initial Latency: After ingestion, there may be a latency period of 6 to 24 hours before symptoms start to appear. During this time, the person might feel fine and unaware of the danger.

2. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: The initial symptoms often include gastrointestinal distress, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, and profuse vomiting. These symptoms can be extreme and may lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

3. Liver and Kidney Damage: The Death Cap mushroom contains toxic substances known as amatoxins. These amatoxins are absorbed into the bloodstream and cause extensive liver and kidney damage. Liver failure and kidney failure are common complications and can lead to life-threatening conditions.

4. Signs of Hepatic and Renal Failure: As liver and kidney damage progress, additional symptoms may appear, such as jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), dark-colored urine, and decreased urine output. Confusion, drowsiness, and a decreased level of consciousness may also develop.

5. Additional Complications: In severe cases, the damage to the liver and kidneys can lead to multi-organ failure, internal bleeding, and sepsis. Blood clotting disorders and hypoglycemia can also occur, further complicating the situation.

6. Time Course: The course of illness can be rapid, and deterioration of the person's condition may occur quickly over a matter of days. Without prompt and aggressive medical treatment, the effects of Death Cap poisoning can be fatal.

7. Medical Treatment: If Death Cap poisoning is suspected, it's crucial to seek immediate medical attention. Treatment may involve intensive supportive care, including intravenous fluids, medications to combat dehydration, liver protectants, and dialysis to support kidney function. In severe cases, liver transplantation might be necessary.

Due to the highly toxic nature of Death Caps and the potential for a rapid decline in health, it is imperative to seek medical help at the first sign of symptoms after potential consumption of this mushroom.