Neurological Symptoms After Eating Undercooked Crab

Q: Neurological Symptoms After Eating Undercooked Crab

Hello： You mentioned brain parasites, which should be quite rare in Taiwan. <br>However, if you travel to other countries and consume undercooked food, you may become infected. <br>For example, in the country where I am currently serving (Eswatini, Africa), traces of certain brai

Brain issues, neck issues, infection issues?

About 3.4 weeks ago, I ate an undercooked crab.
A few hours after eating, I developed a headache.
The next day, I woke up feeling dizzy, and during the first week, I experienced nausea and tingling in my scalp.
I then visited a neurologist and had a CT scan, but the doctor said there was nothing significant.
However, I still feel dizzy, so I went to an otolaryngologist, who also said there was nothing wrong.
Could it be a parasite in my head?

Lan Tongxue, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/11/26

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello: You mentioned brain parasites, which should be quite rare in Taiwan.
However, if you travel to other countries and consume undercooked food, you may become infected.
For example, in the country where I am currently serving (Eswatini, Africa), traces of certain brain parasites are quite common.
The most frequently encountered brain parasite is the pork tapeworm, which can be seen almost weekly if the pork is undercooked.
Another is schistosomiasis; if you wade barefoot in local lakes or consume crustaceans like boiled crabs, you could become infected, often presenting with hematuria, but some can also migrate to the brain.
There have been reports in mainland China of lung flukes parasitizing crabs and humans.
However, based on your description, the duration of your headache seems too short to be indicative of a parasitic infection.
As for your dizziness, it could be due to other common issues such as inner ear circulation problems, poor sleep, or dehydration.
I recommend consulting a neurologist to discuss your concerns, and if you are still worried about parasites, you may want to see an infectious disease specialist for examination and discussion.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Tao, Shen Nei, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2017/11/26

More Info

Eating undercooked seafood, including crab, can pose several health risks, primarily due to the potential presence of harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites. In your case, the symptoms you experienced—headaches, dizziness, nausea, and a tingling sensation in your scalp—could be attributed to several factors related to foodborne illnesses or even a parasitic infection.

Firstly, undercooked crab can harbor pathogens such as Vibrio species, which are bacteria commonly found in marine environments. Consuming contaminated seafood can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea and vomiting, as well as systemic symptoms like headaches and dizziness. These symptoms can arise as your body reacts to the toxins produced by these bacteria or as a result of dehydration from vomiting.

Another potential concern is the risk of parasitic infections. Crabs can carry parasites such as the larvae of the Anisakis worm, which can cause anisakiasis, a condition that may lead to gastrointestinal symptoms. However, it is less common for these parasites to cause neurological symptoms directly. The tingling sensation you described could be a result of anxiety or stress related to your illness, rather than a direct effect of a parasitic infection.

The fact that you underwent a CT scan and were told there was nothing significant found is reassuring. Neurological symptoms following a foodborne illness can sometimes be attributed to post-infectious syndromes, where the body continues to react even after the initial infection has resolved. This can include lingering headaches and dizziness, which may take time to fully resolve.

If you are concerned about the possibility of a parasitic infection, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in infectious diseases. They may recommend specific tests to rule out parasites or other infections. Additionally, if your symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary to explore other potential causes, such as vestibular disorders or other neurological conditions.

In the meantime, it’s essential to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet to support your recovery. If you experience any new symptoms, such as severe headaches, vision changes, or neurological deficits (like weakness or numbness), seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to the consumption of undercooked crab, they may also stem from anxiety or other non-infectious causes. Continued monitoring of your symptoms and open communication with your healthcare providers will be crucial in addressing your concerns and ensuring your health.

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