“Barbecue and beer” has long been a favorite late-night snack for many, but a recent incident in Guangzhou is causing people to reconsider the safety of this beloved pastime. An 18-year-old named Wang found himself in the ICU after a barbecue outing that nearly cost him his life. After undergoing five blood transfusions, Wang was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome, presenting symptoms such as gastrointestinal infections, limb weakness, and difficulty swallowing. This shocking news has sparked widespread discussion, leaving many astounded that a simple barbecue could pose such serious risks.
According to reports, Wang began to experience fever and diarrhea shortly after enjoying the barbecue with friends. While the diarrhea improved with treatment, just a week later, he noticed a significant decline in his strength, struggling to walk. His condition rapidly worsened in the hospital, leading to respiratory distress that required intubation. Fortunately, after five sessions of plasmapheresis, Wang showed gradual improvement and has since been moved out of intensive care.
Dr. Yuan Baoyu, an associate chief physician in the neurology department at Southeast University’s Zhongda Hospital, elaborated on the case in an interview. He explained that Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder that can be linked to bacterial or viral infections, including those from Campylobacter jejuni, Epstein-Barr virus, or herpes simplex virus. “The barbecue itself isn’t inherently ‘deadly,’” Dr. Yuan emphasized. “However, if the food is contaminated or not cooked thoroughly, it can carry bacteria, with Campylobacter jejuni being the most common. Some individuals infected with this bacteria may find their immune response not only attacking the pathogens but also their own nerve tissues, leading to symptoms like limb numbness and weakness. In severe cases, this can escalate to respiratory failure.”
Dr. Yuan pointed out that Guillain-Barré syndrome typically affects only a small percentage of the population, and it’s more prevalent among younger individuals. He emphasized that while the risk of developing this condition from eating barbecue is low, it’s crucial to take precautions. He advised diners to choose reputable barbecue establishments to ensure that the food is fresh and to avoid undercooked meats and seafood. Dr. Yuan also highlighted the importance of seeking medical attention immediately if any warning signs—such as limb numbness or weakness, especially symmetrical symptoms—appear. Other concerning symptoms include a gradual loss of strength in the limbs, difficulty walking, double vision, or trouble swallowing.
“Clinically, the recovery process for Guillain-Barré syndrome can be lengthy, potentially taking months,” Dr. Yuan explained. “Most patients recover gradually with active treatment, although some might experience lingering effects.” Current treatments involve plasmapheresis and immunoglobulin injections to help remove harmful antibodies from the body and lessen the immune system’s attack on peripheral nerves. Dr. Yuan also cautioned that aside from Guillain-Barré syndrome, barbecues can lead to other health risks, including food poisoning and parasitic infections. “In severe cases, these conditions could lead to problems like autoimmune encephalitis or myelitis,” he warned. “While barbecues are indeed delicious, moderation is key, and frequent consumption is not advisable.”
