A simple home remedy for a persistent headache almost cost a woman her life in eastern China. The 50-year-old woman, identified only by her surname Liu, ended up in intensive care after swallowing a raw fish gallbladder.
A Dangerous Folk Belief
Liu believed the fish gallbladder would eliminate her stubborn headache. She followed a long-standing folk belief that claims fish gallbladders can cool the body, remove toxins, and relieve migraines. This dangerous misconception nearly proved fatal.
The Incident Unfolds
On December 14, Liu purchased a 2.5-kilogram grass carp from a local market. After returning home, she removed the gallbladder and swallowed it raw, hoping for quick relief. Instead, she triggered a severe medical emergency.
Within two hours, Liu began vomiting violently. She experienced severe diarrhea and intense stomach pain. Her condition deteriorated so rapidly that her family rushed her to the hospital immediately.
Medical Emergency and Diagnosis
Doctors quickly diagnosed Liu with fish gallbladder poisoning. This rare condition is extremely dangerous. Tests revealed her liver was already failing. Medical staff transferred her directly to the intensive care unit at the Affiliated Hospital of Jiangsu University.
Critical Treatment Required
Liu's situation was critical. Doctors initiated emergency treatment without delay. They performed plasma exchange and continuous renal replacement therapy. These procedures are essential when vital organs like the liver and kidneys approach complete shutdown.
After five tense days in the ICU, Liu finally showed improvement. She recovered sufficiently to be discharged later. The hospital shared details of this alarming case on January 7.
Doctor's Stern Warning
Dr. Hu Zhenkui, who treated Liu, issued a stark warning. He stated that fish gallbladders are "even more toxic than arsenic." Just a small amount can poison a person. Gallbladders from larger fish, especially those over five kilograms, can be deadly.
How the Toxins Attack the Body
The toxins directly damage the liver and kidneys. They can trigger organ failure, shock, brain hemorrhage, or death. Dr. Hu also emphasized that cooking the gallbladder or soaking it in alcohol does not make it safer. This contradicts popular claims suggesting otherwise.
Not an Isolated Case
Liu's case is not unique. Hospitals across China have treated numerous patients who swallowed raw fish gallbladders. Many believe they can improve eyesight, cleanse the liver, or "balance" the body. Some even think the extreme bitterness proves its effectiveness.
Doctors stress this belief is completely false. Medical experts consistently urge people to avoid such risky remedies. They warn that blindly trusting old myths can have devastating, sometimes fatal, consequences.
