A rash on the face after eating shrimp is the result of a shellfish allergy. A shellfish allergy is considered one of the most common food allergies, according to CNN.com. The rash from a shrimp allergy presents as hives that can appear on the face or anywhere else on the body after consuming shrimp. Hives will form within a few minutes or hours after ingesting shrimp and can increase or move without any reason. A shellfish allergy can cause a serious allergic reaction and needs to be evaluated by a medical doctor.
Shellfish Allergy
The proteins in the shrimp cause the immune system to overreact and attack the proteins with antibodies. The antibodies cause the rest of the body to produce various chemicals to fight off the shrimp. When histamine is released near the surface of the skin, the result is an outbreak of hives. Someone with a shrimp allergy may be allergic to other types of shellfish or fish, according to MayoClinic.com.
Hives Symptoms
Hives on the face are a common allergic skin reaction to consuming shrimp. Hives are small, red welts that appear on the face and are extremely itchy. The welts can get bigger, reduce in size or form together, for no reason, according to MedlinePlus. Placing pressure on the hives will expose a white center in the welt. Hives can lead to secondary skin infections if the skin is cracked from excessive scratching.
Other Symptoms
A shellfish allergy will produce other symptoms, along with a rash on the face. Some of the most common symptoms of a shellfish allergy may include general itching, abdominal pain, chest tightness, nasal congestion, nausea, wheezing and tingling in the lips, according to the Cleveland Clinic. In rare cases, eating shrimp can cause someone to experience anaphylactic shock, a serious allergy reaction that could lead to death.
Treatment
Treat hives on the face after eating shrimp by taking an over-the-counter antihistamine, according to MayoClinic.com. Antihistamines will help reduce the amount of histamine in the blood, alleviating the hives. If the reaction is severe, an antihistamine will not help. Hydrocortisone cream can help reduce the inflammation and itch from the hives. Prescribed corticosteroids may be used if directed by a doctor.
Consideration
CNN.com recommends seeing a doctor as soon as possible during an allergic reaction. This will help the physician make an accurate assessment of the rash on the face and advise a proper diagnosis and treatment.
