It is a known fact that seafood allergies include any sensitivity to foods that came from fresh water or salt water. The potential triggers include finned and shelled creatures. An individual who is allergic to seafood should not be exposed through direct contact or ingest any seafood products.
A usual symptom that manifests after consuming seafood product especially those who are allergic is no other than stomach cramps. There are also other abdominal symptoms that go along with the stomach cramps that can lead to diarrhea and vomiting in severe cases. It is best to consult a doctor before the individual will attempt to use any self-treatment measures. By enrolling in a first aid course today, you can be prepared to handle an allergic reaction.
What is seafood allergy?
It is important to note that seafood allergy has long been considered as a life-long allergic condition that could not be cured. Millions of individuals all over the globe are diagnosed with seafood allergy. This allergy is usually linked with anaphylactic shock which is a severe allergic response that can progress to death. In case an individual is allergic to one type of fish or shellfish, there is a high chance of having an allergy to other types of fish or shellfish. Always bear in mind that cross contamination is also an issue to worry about if an individual has seafood allergy since fish are usually handled together.
Possible causes of seafood allergy
Stomach cramps is triggered by histamine present in the intestines. Once an individual experiences an allergic response, the body produces various chemicals that will fight off the proteins from the seafood. Immunoglobulin E and histamine are the two chemicals that mainly instigate the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
The proteins present in seafood are identified by the body as a threat. The high levels of histamine in the GI tract cause the development of inflammation which triggers stomach cramps and pain.
What are the other symptoms?
Stomach cramps is not the only symptom from seafood allergy. If the individual only suffers from cramps without other symptoms, it is simply intolerance towards seafood. The other symptoms that might develop include tingling sensation in the lips or throat, hives, facial swelling, generalized itchiness, skin rashes, vomiting, nausea, wheezing, diarrhea, coughing, difficulty breathing and nasal congestion.
Treatment
The ideal treatment for seafood allergy is to avoid seafood. The food manufacturers are required to indicate if pre-packed food contains seafood or processed in a facility that might contaminate certain food items. The individual should read all the product labels before eating.
If the individual unintentionally ate seafood, all you can do is to encourage the individual to drink plenty of water and rest while waiting for the body to eliminate the seafood proteins in the body. In case the stomach cramps persist, it is best to consult a doctor as soon as possible for proper diagnosis.