Many people from across the world enjoy shellfish as an elegant seafood choice. Consuming shellfish causes severe allergic reactions to certain people. Food allergies to shellfish represent one of the most widespread types of food allergies existing today which affects millions of people worldwide. Allergies to shellfish can develop at any age and require proper management to prevent health complications. This complete blog discusses shellfish details including types of shellfish, shellfish allergy along with their symptoms, treatment and preventive measures for overall well-being.
What is a Shellfish?
Shellfish are different from standard fish because they belong to the invertebrate group which lacks a spine, which is not the case with most fish. Shellfish meaning refers to aquatic creatures that have exoskeletons or shells which live in both saltwater and freshwater regions. Their rich protein content along with essential vitamins and minerals makes them a popular choice in international food restaurants and cuisines worldwide. Shellfish can be characterised in two types of shellfish: Crustaceans and Mollusks.
Types of Shellfish
Let’s get insights about shellfish here by knowing its types; Shellfish fall into two primary categories:
Crustaceans:
Crustaceans are aquatic animals characterised by their hard exoskeletons, segmented bodies, and jointed appendages. They are a significant source of dietary protein and are integral to various culinary traditions worldwide. However, crustaceans are also among the most common allergens, often causing severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. These include:
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- Shrimp
- Crab
- Lobster
- Crayfish
Mollusks:
Mollusks are a diverse group of invertebrates with soft, unsegmented bodies, many of which are protected by a hard shell. They inhabit a range of environments, from deep oceans to freshwater bodies. Mollusks are enjoyed in various cuisines and are known for their unique textures and flavours. While less commonly allergenic than crustaceans, mollusks can still trigger allergic reactions in some people. These include:
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- Clams
- Oysters
- Mussels
- Scallops
- Squid (calamari)
- Octopus
- Snails (escargot)
- Abalone
What is a Shellfish Allergy?
A shellfish allergy happens when the immune system mistakenly sees proteins in shellfish as harmful invaders. In response, the body triggers an allergic reaction, which can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening symptoms. Unlike many food allergies that appear in childhood, shellfish allergies often develop in adulthood. In fact, about 60% of people experience their first allergic reaction as adults. It’s also important to note that a shellfish allergy is not the same as a fish allergy. Being allergic to shellfish doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll react to fish like salmon or tuna, and vice versa.
Symptoms
A shellfish allergy can cause varied symptoms depending on the person and might impact many body areas. Typical symptoms consist of:
- Skin Reactions: Itching, hives, or worsening of eczema.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, or indigestion.
- Respiratory Problems: Chest tightness, wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, or difficulty breathing.
- Cardiovascular Symptoms: Dizziness, weak pulse, fainting, or pale/blue skin colouring.
- Anaphylaxis: A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Treatment
There is no available cure for shellfish allergies as of now, therefore the best treatment for shellfish allergy is to avoid consuming shellfish altogether. For those people who are not aware if they are allergic to shellfish or not, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) at all times can be useful and life-saving, in case of an accidental exposure to shellfish. If any severe reaction occurs, Epipen should immediately be taken and emergency medical attention should be taken to prevent complications. Moreover, if you are allergic to shellfish, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider to ask whether Epipen should be considered or not.
Precautions
If you are allergic to shellfish, caution can keep you safe and avoid unintentional exposure. Always read food packaging labels, as shellfish ingredients might be masked within packaged foods. At restaurants, inform the personnel of your allergy to prevent cross-contamination. Be particularly careful with Asian food, as foods may include shrimp paste, fish sauce, or oyster sauce. If your shellfish allergy is severe, it’s best to avoid seafood markets, where airborne proteins could trigger a reaction.
Conclusion
Living with a shellfish allergy requires you to be vigilant at all times. By understanding the allergy, recognising its symptoms, and taking appropriate precautions, individuals can lead healthy lives without living in constant fear of shellfish related infections. If you suspect you have a shellfish allergy, consult any healthcare provider or an allergist for the proper diagnosis of the problem. It is important to always read food labels carefully to avoid any accidents.
