How Do You Prevent an Allergic Reaction to Shellfish?
Shellfish allergies are a particularly dangerous type of food allergy, affecting people of all ages at any time in their life. And while shellfish allergy treatments are available, it is still important to be cautious about the foods you consume. If adults or children in Atlanta are concerned about their allergy, the first step is to avoid foods likely to trigger a reaction.
What Types of Shellfish Are Likely to Trigger an Allergic Reaction?
A shellfish allergy will affect people in different ways. A person may experience an allergic reaction to a particular type of shellfish, or to many different kinds. If you haven’t been tested by your allergist yet, you should avoid contact with all shellfish until you receive a full diagnosis.
The two types of shellfish to be aware of are crustaceans and mollusks.
Crustaceans
- Crab
- Crayfish
- Lobster
- Shrimp
- Prawns
Mollusks
- Scallops
- Squid
- Mussels
- Snails
- Clams
- Oysters
- Octopus
If you or your child is allergic to shellfish, the likely symptoms will include itching, hives, swelling of the lips, tongue and mouth, stomach pains and lightheadedness. A small number of people may also experience anaphylaxis. In a life-threatening situation of this kind, call 911 immediately and administer an EpiPen® if one is present.
What Are the Other Shellfish-Related Food Products You Should Avoid?
Shellfish may be found in various products that also pose a risk to an allergy sufferer.
- Sauces, broths, stews and soups might include shellfish, but the name of the dish may not make this immediately obvious.
- Standing close to the steam of boiling lobsters or a wok could trigger an allergic reaction.
- You should also be cautious when handling pet or fish foods.
Make sure to check all product labels and communicate any concerns at a restaurant.
What Should I Do if I Have a Shellfish Allergy?
Shellfish allergies often occur unexpectedly during the adult years. For a severe reaction, it is important to contact 911. For milder symptoms, make an appointment with an allergist for a diagnosis. Before a consultation, avoid contact with all shellfish.
Your allergist will usually conduct food allergy testing to find the precise cause of the allergic reaction. A skin prick test, blood test or oral food challenge test should determine which shellfish you need to avoid.
Unfortunately, shellfish allergies tend to remain throughout a person’s life, but a process called oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT) can significantly reduce the impact of the allergy. OIT builds tolerance to shellfish through gradual exposure, reducing the possibility of an allergic reaction.
Begin Addressing Your Shellfish Allergy Today
If you are concerned about a shellfish allergy, Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center is here to help. We provide an allergy diagnosis and management plan from our locations in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call us at (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment online.
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