Shellfish is divided into two groups namely, crustaceans and mollusks. Crustacean family includes shrimp, crab, or lobster while mollusks includes clams, mussles, oysters, scallops, octopus, or squid.
A shellfish allergy causes an allergic reaction when you eat shellfish. Some people with shellfish allergies are allergic to both groups, but some might be allergic only to one. The body’s immune system normally fights infections. But when someone is allergic to shellfish, the immune system overreacts to proteins in the shellfish. Every time the person eats shellfish, the body thinks these proteins are harmful invaders.
Shellfish allergy can cause mild symptoms, such as hives or nasal congestion, or more-severe and even life-threatening symptoms. For some people, even a tiny amount of shellfish can cause a serious reaction.
Shellfish allergy symptoms generally develop within minutes of eating shellfish. That includes:
- Hives, itching or eczema
- Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body
- Wheezing, nasal congestion or trouble breathing
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting
- Tingling in the mouth
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