Shellfish Allergy

Shellfish allergy is one of the common food allergies and as per studies, almost 2% of the U.S. population is affected with this allergy. Shellfish allergy can occur at any age and is mostly seen in adults. It can happen all of a sudden, even if you don't have any previous history of this allergy. It is also observed that shellfish allergy lasts for life and there is a very rare chance of getting rid of this condition. Shellfish are aquatic invertebrates with exoskeletons and include molluscs (clams, mussels, oysters, winkles, and scallops), crustaceans (shrimp, prawn, lobster, crayfish, and crabs) and echinoderms. Some people may be allergic to only one variety of shellfish and are able to eat the rest, but some are allergic to almost every type of shellfish.

Like any other food allergy, shellfish allergy is also caused by the overreaction of the immune system, which identifies the protein in shellfish as harmful to the body. This triggers the production of antibodies and chemicals, like histamine, in the body to neutralize the allergen. The action of these chemicals results in mild to severe symptoms. The allergy triggering protein varies with the different types of shellfish.

Symptoms

The symptoms of shellfish allergy may appear within minutes or hours, after eating. Some may experience mild symptoms, whereas others may experience severe and life-threatening symptoms. This can happen every time you consume shellfish or food containing shellfish. The symptoms include itching, a runny nose, hives, wheezing, tightness in the chest, tingling sensations in the mouth, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, eczema, dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting and anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is the most severe, rare and fatal among the symptoms and affects several areas of the body. It is characterized by the constriction of the airways and a severe drop in blood pressure. If left untreated, it can cause death within hours or even minutes. Usually, it is treated by injecting epinephrine.

Treatment

Shellfish allergy is usually treated with medications like antihistamines. These medications may help in reducing the symptoms caused by the allergy, but cannot eradicate it completely. In case of serious symptoms, an emergency may arise, which requires treatment with epinephrine. The only remedy is to completely avoid shellfish and food items containing shellfish.

Shellfish allergy can occur to any person, but a family history of any allergy can be a contributory factor. There is also a common misconception that an allergic to shellfish translates to an allergy to iodine and researches have proved that there is no relation between the two. Avoid eating at restaurants, as there is a chance of cross-contamination (food items prepared with the oil or utensils, previously used for preparing shellfish). Some people may develop allergic reactions after touching or smelling shellfish, so be very careful to avoid such circumstances. If you have this allergy, there is a probability that your kids may also develop shellfish allergy. In case of any allergic reactions, consult a doctor immediately.