What should you know about shrimp anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis can begin soon after shrimp is eaten or after contact with shrimp proteins. Warning signs may include swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, a tight throat, widespread hives, repeated vomiting, sudden dizziness, confusion or collapse. Skin symptoms may be absent, so do not wait for hives before acting. Food Allergy is a common underlying context, but the diagnosis depends on the full event and examination. Symptoms can worsen quickly even if the first signs seem mild.

Use your prescribed adrenaline auto-injector immediately when anaphylaxis is suspected, following its instructions. Call emergency services and say that anaphylaxis is suspected. Lie down with legs raised if possible; sit up only if breathing is difficult, and place an unconscious person on their side. Do not allow the person to walk around or drive. If symptoms continue or return and a second device is available, follow the emergency plan while waiting for help. An antihistamine is not a replacement for adrenaline in a severe reaction.

Seek emergency care immediately for any breathing difficulty, throat swelling, wheezing, faintness, collapse or rapidly spreading reaction after shrimp. Emergency assessment is needed even if symptoms improve after adrenaline because symptoms can recur. Afterward, arrange specialist follow-up for an action plan, device training, trigger avoidance and consideration of Allergy Testing. Read about Anaphylaxis Emergency Treatment for more detail on urgent management.

Ask: When should I use my adrenaline device? Should I carry more than one? Which foods and restaurant situations create cross-contact risk? How can family, school or colleagues recognise my plan? Should I be referred for Allergy Testing?