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Symptoms of Shrimp Allergy & Shellfish Allergies

According to MayoClinic.com, shellfish allergies are some of the most common food allergies today. Food allergies are due to an immune system malfunction in which the body identifies shellfish proteins as harmful and produces extra antibodies to neutralize the allergen. Shellfish allergies may involve one type of shellfish such as shrimp, while others may involve allergic reactions to lobster, clams, mussels and other types of shellfish. Although many allergic reactions to shellfish can be prevented, understanding the use of shellfish in other dishes is important in preventing reactions to hidden ingredients in different food preparations.

  1. Hives, Eczema or Generalized Itching

    • Hives, eczema and generalized itching are frequent symptoms of shellflish allergies. Utricaria, or hives, are red and swollen patches found on the skin. Hives appear suddenly and typically last a few hours to a few weeks. A few patients with utricaria will also develop utricarial vasculitis in which small blood vessels in the skin become inflamed. These areas often stay red for long periods of time and may also cause aching joints or fever. In some cases, utricaria can become chronic and cause more serious long-term health problems. Angioedema, another skin condition associated with food allergies, typically results in swollen eyelids or lips.

    Swelling

    • Swelling is a common food allergy symptom. Swelling may involve the feet or hands, the lips or face or the throat and tongue. If swelling of the throat or mouth occurs, seek immediate medical attention as this can cut off airways.

    Abdominal Symptoms

    • Abdominal symptoms associated with shellfish allergies can include diarrhea, cramping, vomiting and generalized abdominal pains. If symptoms become severe or continuous, you should immediately seek medical care.

    Dizziness, Tingling and Fainting

    • An allergic reaction to seafood can include lightheadedness, dizziness, tingling in the mouth or fingers and fainting.

    Asthma or Difficulty Breathing

    • Some reactions to shellfish include difficulty breathing or swallowing and asthmatic symptoms such as wheezing, gasping and spasms.

    Anaphlyaxis

    • Anaphlyaxis is a more severe allergic reaction that can result in death. Anaphlyaxis typically causes a swollen airway that makes it difficult to breathe, shock symptoms with a severe drop in blood pressure, a rapid pulse and dizziness or loss of consciousness. These reactions can cause breathing problems and typically require the use of an epinephrine injection to counteract the shock symptoms.

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