Understanding Shellfish Allergies: My Personal Experience
At 26 years old, I’m a Caucasian male with a confirmed shellfish allergy, as documented by an allergist. My journey began when I noticed troubling symptoms, such as a constricted throat and odd sinuses whenever I encountered shellfish. To date, I have suffered from four significant allergic reactions. The first incident occurred when I came into contact with a boiled crab shell; after inadvertently touching my face, I quickly developed swelling. The second instance involved someone in another room opening a clam, which triggered severe shortness of breath for me. The third episode happened during lunch when I found it difficult to breathe, only to discover that a colleague had brought sushi containing crab and was seated directly across from me. This particular episode led to a professional diagnosis when I had to visit the emergency room during work hours. Unfortunately, the allergist treated my symptoms like they were fabricated. Most recently, I faced my fourth allergic reaction due to lobster rolls at my workplace. This time, I encountered two exposures: one in the office while clocked in and uniformed, and the other occurred when I had to cross through the kitchen while being taken to the security team. The security personnel noted my labored breathing, swelling in my neck and throat, and a feeling of mental disorientation. They attributed the situation to my own actions, suggesting it was not the company’s responsibility, even though they had provided shellfish in the office, despite my documented allergy. Upon arriving at the emergency room, the medical staff claimed that shellfish allergies do not manifest this way, insisting they aren’t airborne and implying that I must have had some sort of direct contact. They mentioned that such reactions are exceedingly rare. However, I can confidently state that since the age of 18, I have touched only one crab, yet I’ve experienced multiple reactions without direct contact. Their assertion that incidents like mine are infrequent seemed significant to me. Additionally, some medical professionals suggested I see a psychiatrist, theorizing that my symptoms stemmed from an anxiety attack rather than an allergic reaction. I am bewildered by this response, particularly because they administered an EpiPen and a Benadryl drip while seeming to doubt the legitimacy of my attack. When I inquired about whether my symptoms matched those reported by the security team, my questions went unanswered. I am seeking clarity on this entire situation. Can anyone help explain what might be going on?
Answers (1)
12/13/2025, 4:10:49 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been through a very challenging and distressing experience with your shellfish allergy, especially given the seriousness of your reactions and the dismissive attitudes you've encountered. Let’s break down some key points regarding shellfish allergies and your symptoms, as well as practical steps for managing your condition moving forward.
Main Points:
-
Shellfish Allergies Are Serious: Shellfish allergies can lead to severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, which may require immediate emergency treatment, such as the use of an EpiPen. Symptoms can develop from direct consumption, contact, or, in some sensitive individuals, even airborne particles.
-
Multiple Exposure Reactions Are Possible: While most reactions occur from direct contact or ingestion, there is evidence that some people can react to airborne allergens, especially if they are highly sensitive. Your experiences suggest you may have a heightened sensitivity.
Explanation:
Shellfish allergies are one of the more common food allergies and can provoke a range of reactions from mild hives to severe anaphylaxis, characterized by throat swelling, difficulty breathing, and a rapid drop in blood pressure. It's understandable to feel frustrated when your experiences and concerns are downplayed by healthcare providers.
Next Steps:
-
Continue Monitoring Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of any allergic reactions, including the type of shellfish involved, the circumstances (regarding proximity, potential airborne exposures, etc.), and your symptoms. This can help establish a pattern that can be useful for future medical consultations.
-
Always Carry Emergency Medication: Make sure you have access to an EpiPen or similar emergency medication prescribed by your allergist. Ensure you and those close to you (friends and coworkers) know how to use it in case of another severe reaction.
-
Avoid Shellfish Completely: Given your history, the safest path is to avoid all shellfish entirely. Communication with your workplace regarding your allergy is crucial. Consider informing your HR department or a direct supervisor to ensure proper protocols are followed in the workplace.
-
Seek a Second Opinion: If you feel that your current allergist or the medical professionals you’ve seen are not taking your concerns seriously, consider seeking a second opinion from another allergist. Look for someone with good reviews and experience with patients who have severe food allergies. You deserve a healthcare professional who listens and respects your experiences.
-
Consider Allergy Education: Educating yourself and those around you about shellfish allergies can help them understand the seriousness of your condition. Materials from reliable sources (like the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology) can also be shared with your workplace.
-
Explore Psychological Support if Needed: Although your symptoms appear to stem from a physical allergy, persistent experiences of anxiety around reactions can be common. If you find anxiety about your allergy becomes overwhelming, consider talking with a mental health professional who can provide strategies to manage anxiety.
Closing:
Your journey with shellfish allergies is indeed complex and requires ongoing attention and care. It's important to prioritize your safety and well-being, and to seek providers and environments that take your health seriously. Please continue to advocate for yourself and your health needs. If you have further questions or need support, feel free to reach out.
Related Questions
Braved the Cold Without Gloves at -20
19-year-old from Toronto here. After being outside in frigid temperatures, I've returned home feeling quite cold. My right hand is experiencing numbness and tingling in the fingertips. What steps should I take? It's been around 7 to 8 hours since I was outdoors.
Managing Early Appendicitis: Antibiotics vs. Surgery
I’m a 21-year-old who recently had a CT scan revealing mild inflammation in my appendix and lymph nodes. My doctor informed me that surgery might not be necessary if the antibiotics effectively alleviate my discomfort by tomorrow. However, I can’t shake my fears about a potential recurrence of the inflammation. The thought of going through a post-surgery recovery terrifies me, so I really want to steer clear of that option. Has anyone opted for antibiotics rather than surgical intervention? What was your experience like?
Severe Abdominal Discomfort
An 18-year-old male, with no history of smoking or current medications, finds himself at home, surrounded by his sleeping family. He stands approximately 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs around 220 pounds. Lately, he has been experiencing persistent discomfort in the lower left side of his abdomen. This sensation has intensified recently, culminating in a bout of vomiting, which was notably different this time, presenting more solid material rather than the usual liquid with some fragments. The level of pain has escalated significantly, leaving him uncertain about seeking medical assistance at this moment. What steps should he take?
Concerns Over My Partner's Persistent Pain and Resistance to Seek Medical Help
I’m facing a worrying situation with my partner, a 40-year-old man who stands 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs approximately 19 stone. Here's a brief overview of his medical background: Twenty years ago, he experienced two instances of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his left shoulder. Following the second incident, doctors discovered an abnormal growth of a rib that was pressing against a vein, which was the cause of those DVTs. More recently, he dealt with a blood clot in his calf last year. Fortunately, that was successfully treated, and he returned to his normal health. Although he was advised to continue taking apixaban for the long term, he has, unfortunately, chosen not to follow through with this guidance. He also has a history of elevated blood pressure. For the past couple of days, he has been experiencing two concerning symptoms that emerged simultaneously: a persistent cough with no accompanying cold or flu signs, and a severe pain located on the right side of his torso. He describes this discomfort as being mostly in his stomach yet extending slightly to his back. I would pinpoint the troubled area as the lower part of his ribs along the side of his body. It's unusual for him to express discomfort or complain about his health, so his recent grievances signal to me that the pain is likely quite significant. Despite my repeated suggestions for him to visit a doctor, he insists that he may have simply pulled a muscle. To manage the pain, he's been applying an ibuprofen cream (voltarol) and taking naproxen, but neither seems to provide relief. What might be the underlying issue here? I hope that some medical professionals who see this post can offer their insights, which might persuade him to consider making a doctor’s appointment. I’m open to providing any additional information you might require for a more informed perspective. Thank you for your help!
Struggling with Bleeding and Pain Since Christmas
I'm a 27-year-old woman from the UK, and I've reached a point of exasperation. I'm reaching out because I hope someone can provide insight or guidance on what I should discuss with my doctors. Please excuse any grammar or spelling errors as I have dyslexia. I've been diagnosed with endometriosis and underwent surgery in 2022 for confirmation of that diagnosis. On December 15th, I had my birth control implant removed after nearly two years. During that period, I experienced severe menstrual cramps and PMS. My GP started me on Drospirenone 3mg and Estetrol 14.2mg COCP in October to alleviate these symptoms and suppress my periods, which provided some relief. Prior to this situation, I occasionally dealt with flare-ups that typically lasted a few days or up to a week. To help manage the discomfort, I have been prescribed Duloxetine at a dosage of 90mg. I had an ultrasound earlier this summer, and the results came back normal. Currently, I am awaiting an MRI. Last year, my smear test results were also clear. After the removal of my implant in December, I began bleeding on Christmas Eve. Initially, I could manage with just a panty liner, but over the next few weeks, the bleeding intensified, requiring the use of pads due to increased blood flow and blood clots. Given my history with endometriosis, pain isn't unfamiliar to me; my average pain level is around a 4, but it has recently escalated to 7 or 8. In the past couple of weeks, the discomfort has worsened. My job demands physical activity, and bending over now causes pain in my back and legs. Additionally, I experience discomfort when my bladder fills, and urination is painful, although it doesn't feel like a urinary tract infection. I've also been waking up at night to use the restroom. My doctor performed a urine dip test that showed no signs of infection, though there was blood in my urine, which he indicated was to be expected. Recently, my GP prescribed Tranexamic acid 500mg and Mefenamic acid 500mg, which helped with the blood clots, but I'm still experiencing bleeding and significant pain. I've been diligent about taking my medication, treating it like a strict regimen. I returned to the GP, who referred me for another ultrasound and advised me to go to A&E if the pain worsens. I've been resting as much as possible while still trying to maintain some level of activity, but it hasn't provided much relief. Any assistance or advice would be immensely appreciated! Thank you!