Fish allergy is one of the most severe. When fish allergy occurs there is an allergic reaction to a certain protein. Protein is found in the muscles of fish. This protein, which turns out to be an allergen, is in different amounts in different species of fish.
Allergy to freshwater fish is less common. The most common are allergic reactions to saltwater fish. According to experts and statistics, the ratio is 30 to 70%.
Causes of fish allergy
Some of the most common causes of an allergic reaction to fish are:
- Hereditary - if one of our parents has an allergy to fish, there is a high probability that we will too. If both of our parents are allergic to fish, the percentage of us being allergic too is very high;
- Fish protein intolerance - other causes of fish allergy are fish muscle protein intolerance and egg allergy;
Fish allergy symptoms
Intestinal pain, constipation, stomach problems, gas, burning of the tongue, canker sores, inflammation of the gums, swollen eyelids, red eyes, tearing, sneezing, runny nose, neuralgia, headache, difficulty breathing, chronic cough are most often noticed.
The listed symptoms occur after the body has made contact with the allergen. The strength of the listed symptoms depends on the state of the body and the amount of allergen. Symptoms can appear immediately after fish consumption, after an hour or two, as well as after days.
Fish allergy treatment
Unfortunately, there is no cure for this allergy. In case of an allergic reaction, antihistamines or immunosuppressants are used to prevent the penetration of the allergen.
The most common antihistamines that are used are claritin, erius, zodiac, loratadine, edema. But they should be prescribed and taken only after consulting a doctor. Never take any medication by yourself.
If you have an allergy to fish and fish products, in order not to get an allergic reaction, you will have to avoid its consumption. Only by completely avoiding fish will you be 100% sure that you will not experience adverse reactions.
Also read about the most common food allergies and about food allergies in children.
