Seafood can be a cause of food allergies. When eating, if you experience signs such as an itchy neck, or a red rash on your body, you should stop immediately and seek the nearest medical facility to get help before this condition worsens.
Expertly reviewed by Chris Icamen · Dietetics and Nutrition
Seafood can be a cause of food allergies. When eating, if you experience signs such as an itchy neck, or a red rash on your body, you should stop immediately and seek the nearest medical facility to get help before this condition worsens.
A seafood allergy occurs when the immune system reacts abnormally to the proteins of certain types of seafood. This condition includes many different types, for example, allergy to shrimp, fish, crab, squid, and oyster, among others. Sometimes, the symptoms of seafood allergy can be life-threatening so you will need immediate medical intervention.
Seafood is one of the most common food allergens. It is also one that contributes to a higher number of emergency hospital admissions. Talk to your doctor for more information if you suspect that you have a seafood allergy.
People with seafood allergy will often have the following symptoms:
Allergies can cause a serious, potentially life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. This condition requires urgent medical attention and requires treatment with an injection of epinephrine.
Throat swelling or tightness in the throat (airway constriction) making breathing difficult
You may experience other symptoms not mentioned. If you have any questions about symptoms, consult your doctor.
See a doctor or allergist if you have symptoms of a food allergy shortly after eating. Seek emergency treatment if you develop signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis.
All food allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system. The immune system considers a protein from seafood (including shellfish or mollusks) harmful, leading to the production of antibodies to that protein (allergen). The next time you are exposed to allergens, your immune system releases histamine and other chemicals that cause allergy symptoms.
You are at risk of developing a seafood allergy if someone in your family has it. In addition, while allergies can appear at any age, this allergy is more common in adults, especially women. In children, seafood allergy is more common in boys.
The information provided is not a substitute for medical professional advice. Always consult your doctor.
The only way to prevent an allergic reaction to shellfish is to avoid consuming seafood, including those with shells or mollusks. However, no matter how hard you try, you can still come into contact with seafood.
Your doctor may direct you to self-treat mild allergic reactions to seafood with antihistamines to reduce signs and symptoms such as rash and itching.
If you have a severe allergic reaction to shellfish (anaphylaxis), you may need an emergency injection of epinephrine (adrenaline).
The following lifestyle and home remedies can help you stave off a shellfish allergy:
If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best treatment support.
Learn more about Other Healthy Eating Tips here.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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