Shellfish Allergy: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Effective Treatment Options

Shellfish allergy is one of the most common and potentially life-threatening food allergies, affecting approximately 3% of adults and just over 1% of children, according to the University of California. Whether you're allergic to crustaceans like shrimp and lobster or mollusks such as clams and oysters, managing a shellfish allergy can be challenging. Understanding the symptoms, getting a proper diagnosis, and exploring effective treatment options are essential steps for anyone dealing with this allergy. At HeyAllergy, we specialize in providing personalized, online allergy care to help you manage your allergies and live a healthier life.

What is a Shellfish Allergy?

A shellfish allergy occurs when your immune system mistakenly identifies proteins found in certain types of shellfish as harmful. This immune response can trigger a range of allergic reactions, from mild to severe. According to the Mayo Clinic Shellfish allergies can be divided into two categories:

1. Crustaceans: This includes shrimp, lobster, and crab. Crustaceans are the most common culprits of shellfish allergies.
2. Mollusks: This includes clams, scallops, oysters, and mussels. Mollusk allergies are less common but can still trigger severe reactions.

One unique aspect of shellfish allergies is that they often develop later in life, and they are more likely to be lifelong. Unlike some other food allergies that are commonly outgrown, a shellfish allergy typically persists into adulthood.

Common Symptoms of Shellfish Allergy

The symptoms of a shellfish allergy can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the reaction. For some, the symptoms may be mild, while others may experience life-threatening anaphylaxis. Knowing the signs and symptoms can help you respond quickly and appropriately.

Here are the most common symptoms of shellfish allergies:

• Hives: Raised, red, itchy welts on the skin that can appear anywhere on the body.
• Swelling: Particularly around the face, lips, tongue, and throat, which can make breathing difficult.
• Abdominal pain: Cramping, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea soon after eating shellfish.
• Difficulty breathing: Wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness.
• Anaphylaxis: A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness. Immediate administration of epinephrine (EpiPen) is critical in such cases.

Symptoms usually appear within minutes to a few hours of consuming shellfish or coming into contact with shellfish-contaminated surfaces. In some cases, inhaling steam from cooking shellfish can also trigger symptoms.

Diagnosing Shellfish Allergy

If you think you have a shellfish allergy, getting a professional diagnosis is important. Avoid self-diagnosing, as shellfish allergy symptoms can sometimes be confused with other conditions, like food poisoning or intolerances.

Here’s how shellfish allergies are typically diagnosed:

1. Clinical History: Your allergist will first ask about your symptoms, dietary habits, and any past allergic reactions.
2. Skin Prick Test: During this test, a small amount of shellfish protein is placed on your skin, which is then pricked to allow the substance to enter your system. If you develop a red, itchy bump, it could indicate an allergy.
3. Blood Tests (IgE): Blood tests measure the presence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, which are produced in response to an allergen. Elevated levels of these antibodies after exposure to shellfish proteins indicate an allergy.

We at HeyAllergy, offer convenient online consultations with board-certified allergists who can guide you through the diagnostic process. We also provide at-home allergy test kits to help confirm your diagnosis without needing to visit a traditional clinic.

Treatment Options for Shellfish Allergy

Managing a shellfish allergy typically involves a combination of avoidance, emergency preparedness, and allergy education. While there’s no cure for shellfish allergies, the following strategies can help you live safely and comfortably with this condition.

1. Avoidance

Avoiding shellfish entirely is the most effective way to prevent allergic reactions. Be mindful when dining out or purchasing pre-packaged foods, as shellfish can often be a hidden ingredient. Check food labels carefully, and inform restaurant staff about your allergy to ensure your meal is safe.

2. Carry Epinephrine (EpiPen)

For those with severe shellfish allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (like an EpiPen) at all times is essential. Epinephrine is the first line of defense during an anaphylactic reaction, and prompt use can save lives. In addition to epinephrine, carrying antihistamines can help manage milder reactions like hives or swelling.

3. Allergy Education

At HeyAllergy, we believe education is key to managing allergies effectively. We provide resources and guidance on how to avoid cross-contamination, read labels, and stay informed about potential allergens. We also help our patients create customized emergency action plans so they know exactly what to do in case of accidental exposure.

4. Virtual Consultations and Long-Term Care

Our virtual consultations allow you to receive expert allergy care from the comfort of your home. We offer personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs, focusing on long-term allergy management strategies. Whether you need advice on navigating your diet, updating your emergency action plan, or exploring new treatment options, our allergists are here to help.

Book your virtual consultation today and learn how HeyAllergy can help you live a better quality of life while managing your shellfish allergy. Check out our treatment options to get started.

Can Shellfish Allergy Be Outgrown?

Shellfish allergies are typically lifelong, meaning most people will not outgrow the condition. Unlike milk or egg allergies, which children often outgrow, shellfish allergies can persist well into adulthood. While ongoing research into immunotherapy and other treatments is promising, there is currently no guaranteed way to desensitize someone to shellfish.

Staying vigilant and having a reliable support system in place is the best way to manage a shellfish allergy over the long term. 

HeyAllergy’s Personalized Approach to Managing Shellfish Allergies

At HeyAllergy, we know that no two allergies are the same. That’s why we offer personalized care designed to meet your unique needs. Our team of board-certified allergists works with you to create a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific concerns, whether you’re managing a shellfish allergy or other environmental and food allergies.

We provide:

• Virtual Consultations: Get expert advice from allergists without leaving your home.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor your allergy management plan to fit your lifestyle and severity of symptoms.
• Comprehensive Allergy Resources: Learn how to navigate daily life with a shellfish allergy through educational tools and support.