A shrimp allergy is a common type of shellfish allergy. People who suffer from shrimp allergies can have a multitude of symptoms when they consume shrimp. The most common shrimp allergy symptoms include facial swelling, itchy hives, nausea, dizziness and throat closure.
People who have had a bad reaction to shrimp might be allergic to shrimp alone or might have an allergy to all shellfish. Other types of shellfish include but are not limited to squid, lobster and clams. If an individual has felt sick after consuming shellfish, he or she should set up a doctor's appointment to find out more about a potential shellfish allergy.
Developing itchy hives is one of the most common shrimp allergy symptoms. If a person breaks out in hives after consuming shrimp, he or she should take an antihistamine medication as soon as possible. When a person's body comes into contact with an allergen, histamines are released and cause the body's cells to swell. An antihistamine medication works to block histamines and slow down this reaction. Drowsiness can be a major side effect of taking antihistamines.
Antihistamine medications can also benefit a person who is suffering from facial swelling because of a shellfish allergy. Histamines cause inflammation, which can be reduced by taking an antihistamine pill. Many antihistamine drugs are available over the counter at any pharmacy or grocery store.
A person who is suffering from other shrimp allergy symptoms including nausea and dizziness should take additional steps in getting better. If an individual feels dizzy, he or she should get to a safe place such as a couch or bed and lie down. A person should never attempt to drive while having a dizzy spell. Drinking flat ginger ale or cola can help reduce or stop the feeling of nausea.
One of the most dangerous shrimp allergy symptoms is throat closure, also called anaphylaxis. When a person who has just eaten shrimp is having trouble breathing, someone should take him or her to the emergency room immediately. An injection that can be given only by an emergency medical professional can save the life of a shrimp allergy victim who is suffering from airway constriction.
People who suffer from severe shellfish allergies should take extra care when eating in restaurants. Waiters need to be aware when a diner is allergic to shellfish. Some chefs might reuse a pan to cook another type of food after it has just been used to prepare shellfish for another patron. People who have shrimp allergies need their dinner prepared with freshly cleaned, uncontaminated tools.