Phytoplankton Risks in Florida: Illnesses & Symptoms

There are two main types of illnesses associated with phytoplankton in Florida: respiratory irritation and gastrointestinal distress.

Respiratory irritation

Certain types of phytoplankton, such as Karenia brevis, can produce a toxin called brevetoxin that can cause respiratory irritation when inhaled. Symptoms of respiratory irritation from brevetoxin exposure can include:

- Coughing

- Wheezing

- Shortness of breath

- Difficulty breathing

- Chest tightness

- Throat irritation

- Eye irritation

- Nasal congestion

Gastrointestinal distress

Some phytoplankton, such as Dinophysis spp. and Prorocentrum lima, can produce toxins that can cause gastrointestinal distress when ingested. Symptoms of gastrointestinal distress from phytoplankton exposure can include:

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Abdominal pain

- Cramping

- Fever

- Chills

- Headache

- Muscle aches