October is National Seafood Month, which means shrimp boils, oyster roasts, and crab feasts are happening from coast to coast. But for millions of people, seafood isn’t just a dinner—it’s a danger. That’s because shellfish allergies are one of the most common (and most serious) food allergies in the world, and avoiding them can be more complicated than you’d think.
If you’re one of the millions of Americans living with a shellfish allergy, you don’t have to skip the seafood celebrations. With the right precautions and a bit of basic knowledge, you can stay safe without feeling left out of the fun.
Why are people allergic to shellfish?
Like all allergic reactions, a shellfish allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to a substance it identifies as harmful. Many people assume shellfish allergies are caused by iodine sensitivity, but this is a common misconception. In most cases, a muscle protein found in shellfish called tropomyosin is responsible for causing allergic reactions.
There are two groups of shellfish: crustaceans (like shrimp, crab, and lobster) and mollusks/bivalves (like clams, scallops, and oysters). Crustacean allergies are more common than allergies to mollusks, and shrimp are the most common shellfish allergen in adults and children. It is important to note that finned fish are not related to shellfish, and most people with a shellfish allergy can eat other types of seafood without problem.
Why are shellfish allergies so common?
Here’s something that might surprise you: shellfish allergy affects approximately 2.9% of U.S. adults and 1.3% of children, making it the most common food allergy in adults and the third most common in kids. That translates to nearly 7 million Americans navigating life with shellfish sensitivities!
One reason shellfish allergies are so common is that they tend to appear in adulthood. In fact, about 60% of people with shellfish allergy experience their first allergic reaction as adults. Unlike childhood allergies to milk or eggs that many kids outgrow, shellfish allergies typically appear later in life and tend to stick around for the long haul.
Geographic patterns tell a fascinating story, too. Adults living in ocean-adjacent counties have elevated odds of having shellfish allergy compared to those living in non-shoreline counties, probably because increased exposure leads to higher sensitization rates.
Spotting an Allergic Reaction
Unfortunately, shellfish allergies aren’t just common — they can also be deadly. Shellfish are one of the most common allergens to cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that needs immediate medical attention. Even a tiny amount of shellfish protein can trigger a serious reaction, which is why cross-contamination at restaurants is such a big risk. In some individuals, even touching shellfish or inhaling their fumes during cooking can cause serious allergy symptoms.
Symptoms of a shellfish allergy can vary, but common signs include:
- Hives, itching, or swelling
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Anaphylaxis or trouble breathing, which is an emergency
If you’ve ever experienced these symptoms after eating shellfish, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider and get tested.
Tips to Avoid a Shellfish Reaction
- Read labels carefully. Shellfish proteins can hide in sauces, broths, or fried foods.
- Be cautious at restaurants. Even if you order a “safe” dish, cross-contamination in the kitchen is common.
- Communicate clearly. Let servers know about your allergy before ordering.
- Have an action plan. Work with your doctor to know what to do if you accidentally consume shellfish.
Treatment Options: More Than Avoidance
Avoiding shellfish is the best prevention, but what if you want longer-term relief from allergic reactions? That’s where sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) comes in.
At America’s Best Care Plus, we offer compounded sublingual allergy drops made specifically for your allergies. These drops help “teach” your immune system to tolerate allergens over time by introducing small amounts to the body through drops placed under the tongue. (They’re similar to allergy shots, but without the needles.) For many patients, this means fewer symptoms, less reliance on emergency medications, and more peace of mind at mealtime.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed
Shellfish allergies may be common, but they don’t have to control your life. By knowing the risks, spotting symptoms quickly, and exploring treatment options like allergy drops, you can enjoy National Seafood Month without the worry.
America’s Best Care Plus is here to help. Contact our team to learn how our sublingual allergy drops can provide lasting relief from allergy symptoms and turn every trip to the dinner table into a happy shell-ebration.