äyriäisallergia

Äyriäisallergia is an allergic reaction to crustaceans, a group of arthropods that includes familiar seafood like shrimp, crab, lobster, and crayfish. This allergy is one of the most common food allergies, particularly in adults. The allergic reaction is triggered by proteins found in the flesh of these animals, most notably tropomyosin.

Symptoms of an äyriäisallergia can range from mild to severe and typically appear within minutes to an hour after consuming or even touching the offending shellfish. Common symptoms include hives, itching, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, wheezing, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, an anaphylactic reaction can occur, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.

Diagnosis of äyriäisallergia usually involves a medical history, physical examination, and specific allergy tests such as skin prick tests or blood tests that measure IgE antibodies. The primary treatment for äyriäisallergia is strict avoidance of all crustaceans. This means carefully reading food labels, as shellfish can be present in various dishes and processed foods. Cross-contamination is also a concern, so individuals with this allergy must be cautious when dining out or sharing cooking utensils. For severe reactions, an epinephrine auto-injector is prescribed for emergency use.