|  | Conditions Treatments | Allergies

Symptoms of Allergies to Shellfish

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, about 2 million people in the United States suffer from food allergies. Typical food allergens are cow's milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish and shellfish. Shellfish is one of the more common food allergies and is seen most frequently in women and adults. An allergic reaction to shellfish can be very mild or can be life-threatening. If you're allergic to shellfish, it's important to understand what causes your allergic reaction, as well as methods of treatment.

  1. What Causes Shellfish Allergies?

    • Shellfish allergies occur when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies innocuous animal proteins as harmful intruders. The immune system floods the body with antibodies to combat the protein. It does so by releasing histamines that are responsible for causing allergy symptoms such as a drippy nose, hives, irritated eyes and restricted breathing. According to the Mayo Clinic, you're more likely to have shellfish allergies if your family members have them. And if you're highly allergic to shellfish, even consuming the smallest amount can trigger a deadly response.

    What Are Symptoms of Shellfish Allergy?

    • A common symptom of a shellfish allergy is hives--red, raised welts on the skin that are extremely itchy. Scaly red patches of skin known as eczema can also occur. You might also experience symptoms similar to asthma such as wheezing, coughing and restricted breathing. If you're highly allergic to shellfish, you might experience anaphylaxis. The anaphylactic reaction begins with a flushed feeling and tingling sensation in the mouth. Other symptoms may include a rash, severe sneezing, wheezing and shortness of breath, vomiting and anxiety. If your blood pressure drops precipitously, anaphylactic shock occurs. This can be deadly.

    Treating Shellfish Allergies

    • Symptoms of mild shellfish allergies, such as hives and a runny nose, can be treated with antihistamines. However, if you have an anaphylactic reaction, it's important to go to the emergency room right away to receive an injection of epinephrine and other medical treatment.

    Will I Be Allergic to All Seafood?

    • Often, if you're allergic to one type of crustacean, you'll be allergic to others. This is known as "cross-reactivity." For example, if you're allergic to shrimp, you'll probably be allergic to crabs, crayfish and lobster. Mollusks, such as clams and oysters, can also trigger an allergic reaction, but this is less common. However, some people are allergic to both crustaceans and mollusks.

    How Can I Protect Myself?

    • If you're allergic to shellfish, the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases recommends wearing a medical alert bracelet or other form of ID. It's also advised that you carry an auto-injector of epinephrine if you unexpectedly suffer an allergic reaction. When eating out, always make sure to ask if shellfish is an ingredient in any of the menu items. Finally, read food labels carefully. Federal law requires all food products containing major allergens such as shellfish to be labeled with a warning.

Allergies - Related Articles