• Consumer Health: Are you allergic to shellfish?

a close-up of a plate of shrimp and mixed greensShellfish allergy
Shellfish allergy is an abnormal response by the body's immune system to proteins in certain marine animals, including shrimp, crab, oysters, lobster, squid and scallops. Some people with shellfish allergy react to all shellfish. Others react to only certain kinds. Reactions range from mild symptoms, such as hives or a stuffy nose, to a severe, potentially life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. An anaphylactic reaction to shellfish or anything else is a medical emergency that requires treatment with an epinephrine (adrenaline) injection and a trip to the emergency department. Learn more about the symptoms of shellfish allergy and how to recognize an anaphylactic reaction requiring emergency care.

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