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Symptoms
By Mayo Clinic staffShellfish allergy symptoms include:
- Hives, itching or eczema
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body
- Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting
- Tingling in the mouth
A severe allergic reaction to shellfish called anaphylaxis is rare — but can be life-threatening if it interferes with your breathing. An anaphylactic reaction is a medical emergency that requires treatment with an epinephrine (adrenaline) injection and a trip to the emergency room. Signs and symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- A swollen throat or a lump in your throat (airway constriction) that makes it difficult for you to breathe
- Shock, with a severe drop in your blood pressure
- Rapid pulse
- Dizziness, lightheadedness or loss of consciousness
Though they share similar symptoms, a shellfish allergy is different from an adverse reaction to toxins or bacteria in your food. Unlike an allergy, this common type of food poisoning doesn't directly involve your immune system and occurs only when you eat food that has been contaminated. An allergic reaction to shellfish usually occurs every time you eat the type of shellfish that causes the reaction.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor or allergy specialist if you have possible food allergy symptoms shortly after eating. If possible, see your doctor when the allergic reaction is occurring. This will help your doctor make a diagnosis.
Seek emergency treatment if you develop any signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis.
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- James JM, et al. Respiratory manifestations of food allergy. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed April 22, 2009.
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- Burks W. History and physical examination in the patient with possible food allergy. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed April 22, 2009.
- Burks W. Diagnostic tools for food allergy. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed April 22, 2009.
- Seafood allergy. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. http://www.aaaai.org/patients/advocate/2006/winter/seafood.asp. Accessed April 22, 2009.
- Seafood allergy. Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. http://www.aafa.org/display.cfm?id=9&sub=20&cont=518. Accessed April 22, 2009.
