Allergic to Shellfish

Food allergies occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to substances in food that one has consumed and it does not suit the body, causing a reaction. Food allergies are very common in kids as their digestive system is not fully developed. Children grow out of the food allergies but with adults it stays for life. Sometimes just passing by the food or just the smell of shellfish one gets an allergy. If one is suffering from shellfish allergy, one must avoid shellfish and all food that contains shellfish like:-abalone, clams, crabs, crawfish, crayfish, lobster, oyster, scallops, shrimps, sea urchin and mussels. When eating out be careful with fried food as some restaurants use the same oil to fry shrimp, chicken and fries! It is advisable that you tell the waiter that you are allergic to shellfish so he can tell the chef so he has it in mind while cooking food for your table. You must also keep away form any shellfish flavoring. Shellfish allergy can cause mild symptoms such as nasal congestion, drop in blood pressure, swelling of lips, abdominal pain, lightheadedness and dizziness and rapid pulse. You must see a doctor immediately. The doctor will give you antihistamine to cure the allergic reaction and if needed will give you adrenaline injection.