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Poisonous Mushrooms

Poison Help Line

1-800-222-1222
High Risk
Also Known As:
Poisonous Mushrooms

Overview

Every year, poison control centers across America get more than 9,000 calls about mushrooms. Even very experienced mushroom gatherers can have a hard time determining whether or not a mushroom is safe to eat.

Facts & Effects Of Poisonous Mushrooms

Eating poisonous mushrooms can have very serious effects. Symptoms may not develop for a couple of days. By that time, serious damage may already have occurred.
    • Mushrooms are funguses that grow on wet, moist surfaces such as lawns and wooded areas.
    • Mushrooms called amanitas are very poisonous and can cause death. These mushrooms look very similar to mushrooms that are not poisonous.
    • Some people are allergic to mushrooms that aren’t considered poisonous.
    • People and animals should only eat mushrooms that have been purchased at the store.
    • Just because an animal is eating a mushroom does not mean it is safe for humans.
    • Cooking, canning, pickling, freezing and drying poisonous mushrooms does not remove toxins.
    • Blood disorders
    • Confusion
    • Death
    • Diarrhea
    • Drowsiness
    • Heart, liver and kidney damage
    • Seizures
    • Stomach pain
    • Vomiting

Call the 24-Hour Poison Help Line for Additional Support:

1-800-222-1222

What If Someone Eats A Wild Mushroom

Mushroom ingestion can be very serious. If someone you know eats a wild mushroom, contact The University of Kansas Health System Poison Control Center immediately. Save a piece of the mushroom if you can.

Do not wait for symptoms before you call. Symptoms may not develop for several days.

Prevent Mushroom Poisoning

To keep your family safe, follow these simple guidelines:

  • Check your yard frequently and remove any mushrooms.
  • Teach children that wild mushrooms may be poisonous.
  • Do NOT pick and eat wild mushrooms.
1-800-222-1222
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