San Francisco Seafood Illness Lawyers

cartwrightlaw - July 19, 2021 -

Many people who visit or live in the Bay Area take full advantage of the fresh seafood at restaurants and markets. The only problem that many people have with seafood is that they eat too much of it because it is so delicious. However, some people have a much more devastating experience when they get sick from eating bad seafood.

If you ate at a restaurant and ended up very sick, you might have losses and want to know about your legal options. Contact the San Francisco seafood illness attorneys at The Cartwright Law Firm, Inc., right away for a case evaluation.

What is Seafood Poisoning?

Seafood poisoning can happen for different reasons, all stemming from eating contaminated fish or shellfish. There are different types of poisoning, as follows.

Ciguatera poisoning

This type of poisoning stems from a toxin called ciguatoxin, which algae can create in small amounts. When smaller fish eat algae, and bigger fish eat the smaller fish, the contaminated large fish can end up on your plate. To make matters worse, cooking the fish does not help, as ciguatoxin is a heat-stable toxin. The risk of ciguatera contamination is highest during the summer or when there is a “red tide” of algae.

People with ciguatera poisoning can experience:

Abdominal cramps
Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
Headache
Unable to tell hot and cold temperatures
Metallic taste in their mouths
Low blood pressure
Low heart rate
Feeling as if their teeth are falling out

Treatment requires IV medication to control digestive and neurological symptoms, which might take a while to clear up.

Scombroid poisoning

This type of poisoning stems from bacteria that grow on fish when it is not properly stored in a freezer or refrigerator after the fish dies. This bacteria can become toxic no matter where the fish was caught. Symptoms include:

Nausea
Vomiting
Red skin
Hives
Respiratory difficulties

To treat this poisoning, people often need an IV, antihistamines, and other medications. Some serious cases might require a breathing tube until the medication improves respiratory function.

Shellfish poisoning

This often occurs for the same reason that ciguatera poisoning does, with similar effects. Many types of shellfish can result in poisoning, including clams, scallops, oysters, and mussels. In rare cases, shellfish poisoning can result in paralysis and other lasting effects.

Do You Have a Seafood Illness Claim?

Many people with seafood poisoning need medical attention, and they can end up with medical bills and lasting symptoms. If you believe that your seafood poisoning was due to improper handling or conduct by a restaurant or market, you might be able to hold the company liable for your illness-related losses.

Speak with Our San Francisco Seafood Illness Lawyers Today

Not every bout of seafood illness will result in a legal case. However, it is always worth discussing your rights with a San Francisco seafood illness lawyer at The Cartwright Law Firm, Inc. if you suffered serious illness and losses. Call (415) 851-6486 or contact us online for a free case evaluation today.