Even though the symptoms of an allergic reaction vary from one individual to another, those who are allergic to seafood often experience similar reactions. Catfish allergy can range from mild to life-threatening. One way to determine if a particular reaction is a catfish allergy is to try eating catfish only during a meal. If the individual develops a reaction, this clearly indicates that he/she is allergic to catfish. Individuals who are allergic to a single type of fish can also be allergic to other types of fish.
Signs and symptoms of catfish allergy
If you suspect that an individual has catfish allergy, you have to watch out for the following symptoms. Once these symptoms occur, it indicates that the individual is allergic to catfish.
Swelling
Swelling can occur if an individual is allergic to catfish. It can affect the skin on the face and hands which is quite common among many individuals with catfish allergy. In some cases, the swelling is also accompanied by itchiness or burning sensation as well as reddening of the skin.
Hives
Hives is considered as the most common allergic reaction to catfish. Take note that hives typically breaks out on the face of the individual as well as the throat once catfish is ingested and can frequently manifest on the hands if the fish is being handled.
Asthma
Even though many people consider asthma as a condition that is not connected to allergies, it can be triggered by an allergic reaction and can eventually progress into an ongoing condition due to the frequent ingestion of allergens. Always remember that asthma can cause wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing.
Gastrointestinal issues
Once catfish is being ingested, the stomach will react by attempting to expel the fish as quickly as possible. As a result, stomach pain can occur and can often lead to diarrhea and vomiting.
What is anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is considered as the most severe and life-threatening reaction if catfish is eaten. This is a reaction that affects the whole body that frequently results to the appearance of hives and stomachache and will always result to the constriction of the airways. As a result, the individual will experience breathing difficulty and can lead to suffocation if first aid care is not provided right away.
What is cross-reactivity?
There is a high allergic cross-reactivity among various types of fish. It simply means that individuals who have allergies to a single type of fish are likely to experience allergies to other fishes. This is due to the presence of a protein in different types of fish. With this in mind, many individuals who are allergic to a particular fish are advised to avoid all fish. If an individual is allergic to catfish, it is best to consult a doctor regarding further allergy testing to fully assess other foods that are safe to be eaten.