1. Bring Epinephrine with You into Any Restaurant
Epinephrine (often called adrenaline) will stabilize your body when you go into anaphylactic shock--the severe reaction caused by most food allergies. Because shellfish allergies are usually serious, you should carry an epinephrine auto-injector with you whenever you go into a restaurant and make sure both you and those with you know how to administer it. You can get an epinephrine shot in an emergency room, but the closer the medicine is when the reaction hits, the better off you'll be. Epinephrine is available by prescription from any doctor.
2. Take Antihistamines
A shellfish allergy usually produces a very serious reaction, but with milder cases, you can take over-the-counter antihistamines to reduce the symptoms. They can help stave off or prevent anaphylactic shock, keeping your breathing passages open and stemming the worst of the itching and swelling. They're easy to buy and can be taken immediately, which is a big advantage when dealing with shellfish allergies. Your doctor may prescribe more serious antihistamines or a corticosteroid shot in extreme cases.
3. Take Bronchilators
Bronchilators are anti-asthma medicines, often taken through an inhaler. They are useful in treating shellfish allergies, because they keep your air passages from closing. Respiratory problems are one of the big concerns with shellfish allergies--you could suffocate if you don't get help. Like antihistamines, bronchilators are easy to carry and can be taken at the first sign of an allergic reaction. Most are available with a prescription from your doctor.
4. Watch for Cross-Contamination
You may not have any shellfish in your order, but food prepared in the same area may pick up trace amounts of it. Pans and utensils can cross-contaminate food as well, and some restaurants will also cook fries or other types of fish in the same oils. When you go to a restaurant, mention your allergy to the waiter and ask that he and the cook take special care when preparing your meal. Avoiding buying food that may have mixed with shellfish, such as fresh seafood displayed in the same case at the grocery store. Check the labels of any food you purchase as well. Companies are required by law to mention shellfish content in their foods, which will alert you to any possible danger.
