Crab allergy can trigger mild to dangerous bodily reactions. As a common form of seafood allergy, it is considered life-long with varied symptoms. It is also more severe than the other food allergies.
Aside from consuming crab, direct handling or inhaling cooking vapors can trigger an allergic reaction among highly sensitive individuals.
What are the common signs?
An allergic reaction arises if the individual with crab allergy is exposed to the allergen. The usual signs include:
- Swollen lips, mouth, face or throat
- Tingling sensation in the mouth
- Hives or reddened, swollen and itchy welts
- Stomach cramps
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Cough
Risk for anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially deadly reaction that arises among those with crab allergy. The indications of this severe reaction are usually abrupt and affects the entire body such as:
- Drop in the blood pressure
- Rashes and flushed skin
- Swollen tissues and joints
- Nausea
- Wheezing
- Abdominal cramping
- Convulsions
- Rapid pulse
- Fainting
Individuals with crab allergy necessitate prompt medical care once these symptoms arise.
Important considerations to bear in mind
Crab allergy and other seafood allergies might be hard to diagnose since some of the reactions are strikingly the same as true allergic reactions. If an individual is suspected with an allergic reaction to crabs due to the potential for cross-reactions, avoiding shellfish is vital as part of the allergy management.
Remember that even small traces of crab whether ingested, airborne or direct contact can trigger a reaction among those who are highly sensitive. Even though there is no presence of crab in a dish or food, cross-contamination can arise while the food is being processed, prepared or cooked.