Fish allergy: causes, symptoms and treatment

What is a fish allergy and how do I recognize it?

A fish allergy is an immune reaction of the body to the proteins in fish and seafood. It is one of the most common allergies, especially in children, and can come in many forms.

Types of fish that most often cause allergic reactions

Fish allergies most often occur when red fish, such as salmon, trout, or salmon, are consumed. However, other types of fish, including cod, tuna, mint, halibut, mackerel, flounder, and herring can also cause an allergic reaction.

What symptoms can occur with fish allergies?

Symptoms of fish and seafood allergies can be varied and include:

• Skin manifestations: redness, itching, rash, swelling;
• Gastrointestinal disorders: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain;
• respiratory symptoms: difficulty breathing, sneezing, runny nose;
• anaphylactic shock: severe weakness, dizziness, drop in blood pressure.

In a child, allergy symptoms may be more pronounced and develop quickly.

Diagnosis of fish allergy

Various methods are used to diagnose a fish allergy, including a history, skin tests, and laboratory blood tests.

• The fish allergy skin test is performed by applying a small amount of fish extract to the skin and observing the possible reaction. If redness or swelling occurs within 15-20 minutes, this may indicate an allergy.
• If a fish allergy is suspected, the doctor may order a blood test for class E immunoglobulins (IgE) specific for fish proteins. This will help determine if the patient is allergic and to which types of fish.

Fish allergy treatment

Treating fish allergies includes eliminating fish and seafood from the diet, as well as the use of medications when an allergic reaction occurs.

What medications help with a fish allergy?

The following medications may be prescribed for an allergic reaction to fish:

Antihistamines (e.g., Cetirizine, Loratadine, Fexofenadine), which help relieve itching, redness, and swelling;

Glucocorticoids (e.g., Prednisolone, Hydrocortisone) to reduce inflammatory response;

Symptomatic medications, such as antacids and antispasmodics, to relieve gastrointestinal manifestations of the allergy.

What should I do if I have an allergic reaction to fish?

If an allergic reaction to fish occurs, you should immediately stop eating fish and see a doctor. Depending on the severity of the reaction antihistamines, glucocorticoids or, in the case of anaphylactic shock, adrenaline may be prescribed. If the allergic reaction in a child or adult develops quickly and is accompanied by severe symptoms, an ambulance should be called.

Preventing fish allergies

To prevent fish allergies, you should:

• Eliminate fish and seafood that cause allergies from your diet;
• Be careful when eating foods that contain fish and seafood, especially smoked, dried, and salted fish;
• Pay attention to the composition of prepared foods and meals, as they may contain fish proteins;
• Avoid contact with fish and seafood at work or at home if you are prone to allergies;
• Inform restaurant and cafe staff about your allergy.

In conclusion, fish allergies are a fairly common problem, especially among children. To recognize a fish allergy, you need to pay attention to symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, difficulty breathing and GI problems. It is important to be diagnosed by a specialist and to use medications such as antihistamines and glucocorticoids if necessary.

If you or your child has symptoms of fish allergy, be sure to see an allergist for diagnosis and adequate treatment.