Allergies to seafood and shellfish are the most common allergies developed by adults. They are likely to have their onset suddenly, without warning or any previous symptoms. Because allergies to shellfish can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening, it's important to know what to look for and be prepared. Not eating shellfish is not enough to protect you from an allergy. It's also important to know what to do to avoid exposure to shellfish and how to treat an allergic reaction if you should have one.
General Symptoms
Any or all of the following symptoms may occur if you have an allergy to shellfish, according to the Mayo Clinic: hives, itching, skin rash, eczema, tingling of the mouth, pain in the abdomen, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting.
Severe Symptoms
In certain people, severe, life-threatening symptoms known as anaphylaxis may occur from eating any shellfish or product containing shellfish. These symptoms include breathing problems, wheezing, swelling of the mouth, tongue, throat or elsewhere on the body, airway blockage, shock with a large drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness or rapid pulse.
Prevention
Avoid eating all shellfish, regardless of whether you are only allergic to one, suggests the Cleveland Clinic, including shrimp, lobster, clams, muscles, abalone, crayfish, sea urchin, oysters and scallops. In restaurants, request that they use a pan that has not been used for shellfish to prepare your meal. Check all food and supplement labels for contents. Many have shellfish or shellfish flavoring as one of the ingredients. Be careful when eating in restaurants about ordering fried foods, as many restaurants use the same oil to fry shellfish as they do other foods.
Safety
Ask your doctor for allergy tests to confirm a shellfish allergy. If you have an allergy to cockroaches, dust mites or other insects like bees, the allergenic toxins found in these are the same as the toxins found in shellfish, and your likelihood for having a shellfish allergy increases. Wear a medic alert bracelet, advises the Cleveland Clinic. Always carry an epinephrine syringe with you, and instruct your family members and friends on how to use it in the event you have an allergic reaction and are unable to do so yourself.
