What is a significant symptom of puffer fish poisoning?

Puffer fish poisoning is primarily caused by the consumption of tetrodotoxin, a potent neurotoxin found in certain species of puffer fish. One of the most significant symptoms observed in cases of puffer fish poisoning is respiratory failure. This occurs due to the neurotoxic effects of tetrodotoxin, which can lead to paralysis of the muscles involved in breathing. The toxin interferes with nerve function, leading to a failure of the respiratory muscles and potentially resulting in respiratory distress or failure, which can be life-threatening without immediate medical intervention.

While gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea may occur, they are not the most critical or defining symptoms of puffer fish poisoning. Other options like headaches and fever do not typically align with the symptoms associated with this form of poisoning, making respiratory failure a key and serious symptom that requires urgent medical attention.