Mollusc allergy is a food allergy to a group of shellfish called molluscs. It can cause a range of reactions, from mild to severe. It's important to understand this allergy and its potential symptoms.
What are Molluscs?
Molluscs are a type of shellfish with a soft body and usually a hard shell. Common molluscs include:
- Mussels
- Clams
- Oysters
- Scallops
- Squid (calamari)
- Octopus
- Snails (escargots)
Symptoms of a Mollusc Allergy:
Mollusc allergy symptoms 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 molluscs. 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, mollusc allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that can impair breathing, cause a drop in blood pressure, and lead to loss of consciousness.
Cross-Reactivity:
People with mollusc allergies may also experience reactions to other types of shellfish, such as crustaceans (crabs, lobsters, shrimp). This is known as cross-reactivity. If you have a mollusc allergy, it's important to discuss cross-reactivity with your allergist.
Management:
The best way to manage a mollusc allergy is strict avoidance. This means avoiding all molluscs and products that may contain them. Always read labels carefully, especially when dining out or purchasing prepared foods.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
If you suspect you have a mollusc 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.