Why Do My Eyes and Throat Get Swollen When I Eat Prawns?

Many people can enjoy seafood without any issues, but for some, certain types of shellfish can cause significant discomfort, including swelling in the eyes and throat. This article aims to explore the reasons behind these reactions, specifically when they occur with prawns but not other seafood such as crabs, lobsters, crayfish, or fish.

Shellfish Allergy

Prawns and other crustaceans like crabs and lobsters are known allergens. However, not everyone who is allergic to one type of shellfish will react to all types. This means it is entirely possible for an individual to experience an allergic reaction to prawns but not to other shellfish.

Cross-Reactivity

When you eat prawns, your immune system might identify certain proteins as harmful and trigger an immune response. This is a phenomenon known as cross-reactivity. Although crabs and lobsters are also crustaceans, they have different protein structures. Therefore, the specific proteins in prawns might not cause the same immune response in your body as those in crabs or lobsters.

Histamine Release

Eating prawns can lead to your body releasing histamines, which can cause swelling in the eyes and throat. Histamines are chemical compounds that can also trigger other symptoms such as itching and hives. Even if you do not have a full-blown allergy, histamine release can still cause these symptoms.

Sensitivity vs. Allergy

Your reaction could also be a sensitivity rather than a full allergy. Sensitivities can cause similar symptoms, but they usually do not involve a robust immune response as seen in allergies. It is crucial to identify the exact cause of your reactions to manage them effectively.

Consult a Professional

To determine the specific cause of your reactions and to manage them, it is recommended to consult with an allergist or healthcare professional. They can perform proper tests to diagnose whether you have a shellfish allergy or a sensitivity and advise you on appropriate management strategies.

Exploring Different Sources

If you suspect that your reactions are triggered by something specific in prawns, you might want to try prawns and shrimp from different sources. Additionally, exploring wild-caught versus farm-raised prawns could help determine if the feeding practices of the prawns differ and if that is the cause of your sensitivity.

Conclusion

Experiencing swelling in the eyes and throat when eating prawns can be concerning, but it often has a clear cause. By understanding the potential reasons, consulting a professional, and trying different types of prawns from various sources, you can better manage your reactions and enjoy a wider variety of seafood.