Prevention Of Shellfish Allergy

If you know you are allergic to shellfish, the only sure way to avoid an allergic reaction is to avoid all shellfish or products that may contain shellfish. Even trace amounts of shellfish can cause a severe reaction in some people. Shellfish is not usually a hidden food ingredient, so it may be easier to avoid some other food allergens.

Avoid shellfish

Be careful when eating out. Eating out poses the greatest danger of mistake of eating seafood. When eating out, always make sure that the same pan, oil or utensils used for shellfish are not also used for other foods. This is called cross contamination.

Pay particular attention to seafood restaurants. Fish and shellfish are biologically distinct, so that the fish does not cause allergic reactions, if you have an allergy shellfish - even if you are allergic to fish. But after eating a seafood restaurant, has a higher risk of contamination of food with small amounts of seafood. Some people also have allergic reactions to the fumes of cooking.

Read labels. Cross-contamination can occur in locations where food can be processed or displayed with shells. It can also occur during manufacture. Remember to read food labels carefully. Companies are required to clearly label products containing even small amounts of seafood or other foods that often cause allergic reactions.

Keep your distance. You may have to completely avoid environments where shellfish are prepared or processed. Some people even have a reaction after touching shellfish or inhaling steam from cooking shellfish.

Some people mistakenly believe that allergy to iodine or allergy to the dye used in certain radiological laboratory procedures can cause reactions in people allergic to shellfish. Reactions to radiocontrast material or iodine are not related.

Glucosamine, a supplement used to prevent and treat arthritis, is made from crab shells, lobster or shrimp. Although it does not seem to cause an allergic reaction in most people with shellfish allergy, more studies should be conducted to determine if it is safe for people allergic to shellfish.

If you run the risk of a serious allergic reaction, talk with your doctor to carry an emergency epinephrine (adrenaline). If you have had a severe reaction, wear medical alert bracelet or necklace that lets others know that you have a food allergy.