Are you concerned about a shellfish or seafood allergy? Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Centers have experienced allergists providing effective shellfish allergy treatment services to both adults and children. Here are the questions Atlanta patients have about this common type of allergy.
Answers to the Most Asked Seafood Allergy Questions
Why Are People Allergic to Seafood?
Seafood allergies are caused by an immune system response to proteins in fish and shellfish. Your body believes these harmless proteins are a threat, then releases chemicals that cause allergic symptoms. Tropomyosin is the major allergen in seafood – and in the case of fish, it’s parvalbumin.
What Are Seafood Allergy Symptoms?
A seafood allergic reaction leads to symptoms such as itching, hives, wheezing, congestion, swelling of the lips or tongue, stomach pain, lightheadedness, diarrhea and vomiting. In the most severe cases, anaphylaxis may result.
Are Seafood Allergy and Shellfish Allergy the Same Thing?
A seafood allergy and shellfish allergy are not identical. Shellfish allergies are reactions to crustaceans (including crab, lobster, shrimp), and mollusks (such as squid, scallops and oysters). The phrase “seafood allergies” can refer to reactions to fish and/or shellfish.
Is a Fish Allergy the Same as a Shellfish Allergy?
No. While both belong to the category of seafood, fish and shellfish are biologically different. For instance, individuals may be allergic to fish like tuna or cod yet can safely eat shellfish, and vice versa.
How Do You Know if You Have a Seafood Allergy?
If you experience a skin rash, stomach pains, nasal congestion and other symptoms after eating seafood, you may have an allergy. However, clearly determining the cause of the problem will require a food allergist to diagnose a shellfish allergy or fish allergy.
What Is the Most Common Seafood Allergy?
Shellfish allergies are more common than fish allergies. Of the various types of shellfish, crustacean allergies are more common than mollusk allergies, with shrimp allergy being the most frequent overall. Among fish, the most common sensitivities are to salmon, tuna and halibut allergies.
Can You Be Allergic to Crab but Not Shrimp?
Yes. It is possible to be allergic to one type of shellfish without suffering allergic reactions to others. However, many people are allergic to all types of shellfish within the group. For instance, as crab and shrimp are both crustaceans, many people will find themselves being affected by both. If you experience an allergic reaction to crab, it’s safer to consult your allergist before trying other types of seafood.
Can You Grow Out of a Seafood Allergy?
While many allergies are outgrown over time, shellfish and fish allergies usually persist throughout a person’s life. In addition, seafood allergies can start at any age – even if you have previously consumed fish or shellfish without a problem.
Can a Seafood Allergy Be Cured?
No. There are currently no cures for a seafood allergy. The closest treatment to a cure is oral immunotherapy treatment. This desensitization treatment enables your immune system to build a tolerance to seafood allergens, helping prevent allergic reactions.
Is There a Home Remedy for a Seafood Allergy?
Avoidance is the best home remedy for a seafood allergy. Seafood allergy sufferers will need to avoid eating fish and shellfish directly, and also check lists of ingredients for possible seafood traces. In some cases, the vapor and aroma from cooking seafood may also cause an allergic reaction.
Contact Us With Your Questions About Seafood Allergies
If you have any further questions about shellfish or seafood allergies and their treatment, contact Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center today. We provide effective allergy treatment from centers in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment now.
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