You are allergic to prawns because your immune system mistakenly identifies a protein in prawns as harmful.
Understanding Prawn Allergy
Your immune system is designed to protect you from harmful substances like viruses and bacteria. When you have a prawn allergy, your immune system misinterprets a specific protein found in prawns as a dangerous threat. This misidentification triggers an allergic reaction.
How the Allergic Reaction Works
Here's a breakdown of what happens when your body reacts to prawn proteins:
- Misidentification: Your immune system mistakenly identifies a protein in prawns as a harmful invader.
- IgE Antibody Production: Your body produces immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to fight off what it perceives to be a dangerous substance.
- Histamine Release: These IgE antibodies then cause cells in your body to release chemicals like histamine.
- Allergic Symptoms: The release of histamine and other chemicals leads to the symptoms associated with allergic reactions, which can range from mild to severe.
Common Symptoms of Prawn Allergy
Allergic reactions to prawns can manifest in various ways. Common symptoms include:
- Hives or skin rashes
- Itching or tingling in the mouth
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or throat
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Wheezing, shortness of breath, or a cough
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
In severe cases, prawn allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Diagnosis of Prawn Allergy
If you suspect you have a prawn allergy, a doctor can confirm it through:
- Skin Prick Test: A small amount of prawn extract is applied to your skin to see if a reaction occurs.
- Blood Test: A blood test can measure the level of IgE antibodies specific to prawn proteins.
- Oral Food Challenge: This is conducted under medical supervision where you gradually consume prawns and are watched for any reaction.
Managing a Prawn Allergy
The most effective way to manage a prawn allergy is to avoid prawns and prawn products altogether. It is also advisable to:
- Read food labels carefully: Be vigilant about hidden sources of prawns in prepared foods.
- Inform restaurant staff: When dining out, inform servers of your allergy to avoid cross-contamination.
- Carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen): If prescribed, ensure you always carry an EpiPen to use in the event of anaphylaxis.
- Seek immediate medical attention: If an allergic reaction occurs, seek medical help promptly.
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Cause | Immune system misidentifies prawn protein as harmful. |
| Immune Response | Production of IgE antibodies and release of histamine. |
| Symptoms | Skin rash, swelling, vomiting, breathing difficulty, and potentially anaphylaxis. |
| Diagnosis | Skin prick test, blood test, or oral food challenge. |
| Management | Strict avoidance of prawns, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed. |
