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How do you know if you have a shellfish allergy?

shellfish allergy
shellfish allergy

A lot of us simply love to gorge on seafood. Shellfishes the most loved seafood delicacies are, our favorite. However, not all of us know that shellfish allergies are one of the commonest forms of allergies that affect Americans. Shellfish may include various types of mollusks, oysters, lobsters, prawns, squids, crabs, and octopuses.

Is shellfish a common food allergy?

In short, every kind of creature enclosed within a shell can be termed as a shellfish. There is a common misconception about iodine allergy being synonymous with shellfish allergy; however, studies have revealed that the symptoms, as well as the causes, vary widely, although shellfish are known to be rich in iodine.


Consumption of Shellfish is considered very beneficial for health, but its consumption can be harmful to the health of some people. The problem of allergy is seen in the consumption of Shellfish by many people. 


Although this problem does not occur with the consumption of all Shellfish, some problems have been seen in people with the consumption of Shellfish such as shrimp, crab, tuna Shellfish, or salmon. 


Experts believe that people who have problems with the consumption of these Shellfish should avoid consuming any type of Shellfish. 


The problem of allergy caused by its consumption is mostly not understood but it can be dangerous in the future. 


Problems caused by eating shellfish can include mild symptoms of allergy such as a mild skin rash or rash, in addition, some people consuming Shellfish can cause breathing problems, abdominal pain or cramps, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting. Is. Like a food allergy, ignoring Shellfish allergy can also be difficult, let's know some things related to it.


Shellfish Allergy Symptoms


Every person's immune system works in different ways. Some people may have many problems related to food but people with strong and healthy immune systems and digestive systems can easily digest all types of food.


The same situation happens in the case of Shellfish allergy. Shellfish allergy cases are more common in people with a weak immune system, although anyone can have problems related to Shellfish allergies, people whose immune system is strong have mild symptoms.


Read more- Allergy home remedies


Most people who are prone to Shellfish allergies can also have problems with the smoke released during the cooking of Shellfish or seafood.


Shellfish allergy causes symptoms

A Shellfish allergy can be difficult to ignore, and people who have this problem are also at risk of anaphylaxis.


In such a situation, problems like skin rashes, swelling of the face, difficulty in breathing, nervousness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and vomiting are seen in people. In rare cases, anaphylaxis can lead to shock, or even death if severe breathing problems occur. The main symptoms of Shellfish allergy are as follows.

List of Shellfish allergy


  • Headache

  • Difficulty breathing (asthma)

  • Red spots or rashes on the skin

  • Swelling of the face and lips

  • Itching

  • Cramps, stomach pain, nausea or vomiting

  • Indigestion and flatulence

  • Diarrhea

  • Trouble speaking

  • Sore throat


shellfish allergy
shellfish allergy


Causes of Shellfish Allergy


Most people have Shellfish or seafood allergies because of problems with the body's immune system. In the case of Shellfish allergy, our body's immune system and digestive system are unable to digest the proteins found in it. 


The protein found in seafood and Shellfish causes problems in the production of antibodies in the body. In such a situation, when you consume these Shellfish, the body's immune system produces dangerous chemicals through histamine, due to which a problem like an allergy arises. Hives, fever, and other allergy-related problems start because of histamine.


Some people have the problem of allergy only to a particular type of Shellfish, but this problem starts with the consumption of all Shellfishes. People who are allergic to only certain Shellfish should not consume Shellfish like shrimp, or crab. 


These crustaceans cause such a problem, it is also known as cross-reactivity. Experts recommend staying away from the consumption of shellfish in case of any type of allergy. 


Although, like food allergies, people can be allergic to the consumption of any Shellfish,, in more than 2000 Shellfish species, some special Shellfishes, due to which most of the allergy problems are seen, are as follows.


crustaceans – crabs, lobsters, crayfish, and shrimp

Mollusks - squid, snails, clams, oysters, and scallops

Salmon, Snapper, Trout, Tuna




Risks- It is certainly not advisable to take such allergic conditions lightly. People have been known to go into anaphylactic shock after being exposed to shellfish. The reaction differs from person to person with some getting away lightly with just mild eczema or nausea, while others may find themselves in a fatal condition that becomes life-threatening.


Precautions- It is best to avoid all kinds of shellfish served in restaurants. You may not be aware of the kind of fish which is used to prepare a dish and might accidentally, put yourself in jeopardy. It is, therefore, important to steer clear of such dishes while eating out.


Another important precaution that you must take is to see a doctor as soon as you experience shellfish allergy symptoms. Several tests may be required in order to isolate the exact type of shellfish that you are allergic to.


Flavored food can pose a risk as well. A lot of manufacturers use shellfish to enhance the aroma of foodstuffs that they prepare. Make it a practice to read the label before you use a packaged food product.




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