But various myths and fallacies are associated with shellfish and seafood allergies. Though it’s true that people with seafood allergies must be extremely careful about their exposure, they also need to know what myths are in fact, myths. Here’s the truth about shellfish and seafood allergies:
Shellfish allergy can occur any time in life. Adults and young adults may suddenly develop a shellfish allergy; it can appear at any age. They may never have had an allergic reaction to shellfish or seafood before, and suddenly have a severe reaction to shellfish. Shellfish allergy is rarely outgrown once it is developed, and generally extends to multiple types of shellfish. Crab, lobster, and shrimp are the most common allergens.You can have an allergic reaction to shellfish without eating it. The proteins in shellfish and other seafood that trigger food allergies and allergy symptoms can be transmitted through the air when the fish is cooked. If you are in a restaurant or in the kitchen when shellfish are being cooked, you could still have an allergic reaction. Even just handling fish or smelling the steam of cooking seafood can trigger a serious allergic reaction in people who are extremely sensitive to seafood and shellfish.Seafood allergies and shellfish allergy are not caused by iodine. You’re also not allergic to iodine just because you are allergic to shellfish or seafood. Shellfish and seafood also contain iodine, but that isn’t what’s responsible for food allergies. A recent study investigating the supposed relationship between iodine and seafood allergies found that there is not a relationship between reactions to iodine and seafood allergies. So you also don’t need to avoid iodine just because you have a seafood or shellfish allergy.It’s safe to have a CT (computed tomography) scan with contrast dye when you have a shellfish allergy. The materials in the contrast dye used prior to a CT scan are not related to allergens in shellfish, and a recent study showed no increased risk of allergic reaction to contrast dye in people with shellfish allergy. Unless you have had an allergic reaction to contrast materials, you should not be worried about having a reaction just because you are allergic to shellfish.You don’t need to avoid the ingredient carrageenan. Carrageenan is actually a type of algae that’s a common additive in a number of foods, including dairy products. Carrageenan is not associated with shellfish allergies and is safe to consume.You can take the supplement glucosamine. Often used to promote joint health, glucosamine is derived from the shells of marine life, not the fish themselves. The protein that triggers allergic reactions isn’t included in the supplements, so glucosamine will not cause an allergic reaction in people with seafood allergies.
Seafood allergies are nothing to take lightly; it’s always better to err on the side of caution rather than risk having a severe allergic reaction from coming into contact with shellfish. Knowing the facts about these food allergies can help make them just a bit easier to deal with, as you will be more certain of your possible risk. Learn more in the Everyday Health Allergy Center.
