If skin rash develops after eating a dish that contains shrimp, the individual is experiencing a type of food allergy. It is important to note that shellfish allergy is one of the most prevalent food allergies that affect millions of individuals all over the globe.
Always bear in mind that shrimps are a type of shellfish. When an individual develops a skin rash, it is an indication of an allergic reaction and should not be ignored. If you suspect that an individual is allergic to shrimp or other types of shellfish, a doctor should be consulted so that proper testing can be carried out in order to confirm the allergy.
How an allergy to shrimp develops?
Any allergy to certain foods starts with an abnormal immune response. There are certain proteins present in shrimp that are erroneously identified by the immune system in the body as a threat. This will trigger an immune response that involves the release of antibodies that will attack the protein. When the individual is exposed to the shrimp proteins the next time, the immune system will release histamine which is responsible for instigating the skin rash and other accompanying symptoms.
Symptoms
An allergic reaction can trigger a skin rash in minutes or a few hours after eating shrimp. The reaction tends to vary where the mild symptoms include a skin rash and itchiness. In a stronger reaction, the individual can develop other symptoms including swelling of the face, lips, mouth and tongue as well as hives.
If the individual is highly allergic, he/she will start to wheeze and feel the tightening of the throat which makes it difficult to swallow or breathe. This is considered as a serious situation that requires immediate medical care. If the individual develops a skin rash after eating shrimp, he/she should not eat it again until the allergy is confirmed. Take note that the allergic reactions can gradually worsen after every exposure.
Severe reaction
Shrimp and other types of shellfish are known to cause anaphylaxis which is a severe allergic response. This is a life-threatening reaction involving the entire body to the allergen, resulting to systemic release of histamine. The symptoms develop quickly which includes slurred speech, abdominal cramping, confusion, difficulty breathing, severe wheezing, diarrhea as well as vomiting, fainting and rapid heart rate. If not treated right away, anaphylaxis can lead to coma and even death. This reaction would surely require emergency assistance.
Considerations to bear in mind
When an individual develops a skin rash after consuming shrimp, he/she might have an allergy. It is vital to avoid any contact with shrimp. The individual should carefully read all the product labels if they contain shellfish. When eating outside, always ask the server if a particular dish contains shrimp.
The individual who has a confirmed allergy to shrimp must wear a medical bracelet that indicates that he/she is allergic to shrimp. Antihistamines are given to help calm the skin rash but an injection of epinephrine should be given to reverse the severe reaction. A doctor should be consulted if the allergy is severe since an injectable epinephrine will be prescribed. By enrolling in a course on first aid, you will learn how to properly administer epinephrine during a severe allergic reaction.