Crustacean allergy is a common food allergy that affects many people. It's important to understand this allergy and its potential symptoms to manage it effectively.
What are Crustaceans?
Crustaceans are a type of shellfish with a hard exoskeleton (outer shell). Common crustaceans include:
- Crabs
- Lobsters
- Prawns
- Shrimp
- Crayfish
- Barnacles
Symptoms of a Crustacean Allergy:
Symptoms of a crustacean allergy can vary from person to person and range from mild to severe. They can appear within minutes or up to a few hours after consuming crustaceans. Some common symptoms include:
- Skin: Hives, itching, swelling, eczema
- Digestive System: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps
- Respiratory System: Wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing
- Oral Allergy Syndrome: Itching or swelling of the mouth, lips, or tongue
- Anaphylaxis: In severe cases, crustacean allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that can impair breathing, cause a drop in blood pressure, and lead to loss of consciousness.
Management:
The best way to manage a crustacean allergy is strict avoidance. This means avoiding all crustaceans and products that may contain them. Always read labels carefully, especially when dining out or purchasing prepared foods.
Cross-Reactivity:
People with crustacean allergies may also experience reactions to other shellfish, such as molluscs (e.g., mussels, clams, oysters). This is known as cross-reactivity. If you have a crustacean allergy, it's important to discuss cross-reactivity with your allergist.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
If you suspect you have a crustacean allergy, it's essential to see an allergist for proper diagnosis. They may perform tests like skin prick tests or blood tests to confirm the allergy. In case of an allergic reaction, especially anaphylaxis, epinephrine auto-injectors (e.g., EpiPen) are used for emergency treatment.