Reaction Registry

Browse for Reaction To:

Shellfish

Age: 17
Allergen: Shellfish
Symptoms: Swollen throat, hives, difficulty breathing, dizziness, stomach cramps
Where: Restaurant

What’s the Story?

I had gone out to eat at a Chinese restaurant with my family, and I decided to have the fried cucumber and fried noodles. I had eaten them before from this exact restaurant many times and never experienced a reaction before. About 2 minutes after I had taken the first bite of my meal, my throat started to itch. I didn't think much of it and kept eating, which I realize now was a bad idea. Within another 2 minutes, my throat had started to swell and I had hives all over my face and arms. I couldn't breathe and started to feel dizzy. I had severe stomach cramps and I knew that the reaction was serious. I was rushed to the hospital where I received an epinephrine injection.

How could this have been prevented?
My advice would be that if you know you are allergic to something, check to see if there is any cross-contamination in the kitchen where it is prepared. Also, don't brush a reaction off, even if it feels like a mild one. it could get worse quickly.

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