Shellfish allergy

Shellfish allergy is an allergy that some people have to the meat of marine animals in the mollusk and crustacean families. This includes animals such as lobster, crab, shrimp, oyster, clam, scallop and others.

Symptoms

The symptoms of shellfish allergy can vary from person to person, but may include:

• Hives, itching or eczema
• Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body
• Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing
• Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting

In some people, shellfish allergy can cause a severe reaction called anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.

Causes

Shellfish allergy is caused by your body's immune system reacting to the proteins in shellfish. If you have a shellfish allergy, your immune system identifies certain shellfish proteins as harmful, triggering the production of antibodies known as Immunoglobulin E (IgE) to neutralize the protein (allergen).

Diagnosis

If you suspect you have a shellfish allergy, it's important to see a doctor for a diagnosis. The doctor may perform a skin prick test or a blood test to confirm the allergy.

Treatment

The best way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid shellfish. However, if you accidentally consume shellfish, medications such as antihistamines can help relieve your symptoms. In severe cases, you may need to carry an emergency injection of epinephrine.

See also

• Food allergy
• Anaphylaxis
• Immunoglobulin E

Shellfish allergy Resources
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