Why does eating seafood cause allergic itching?

Generally, itching and allergic reactions after eating seafood may be caused by factors such as foreign proteins in seafood, consumption of spoiled seafood, seafood allergy, acute urticaria, or atopic dermatitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Foreign proteins in seafood: The protein structure in seafood differs significantly from human proteins and is easily recognized by the immune system as a foreign substance, triggering itching. Immediately stop consuming seafood, drink plenty of warm water to accelerate metabolism, and avoid scratching to prevent skin damage.

2. Consumption of spoiled seafood: Spoiled seafood breeds bacteria, and their decomposition products can irritate the skin and mucous membranes, causing allergic itching. Induce vomiting promptly to reduce toxin absorption, maintain a light liquid diet, and avoid increasing gastrointestinal burden.

3. Seafood allergy: The immune system overreacts to seafood proteins, causing not only itching but also skin erythema and rashes. Patients may take medications such as loratadine hydrochloride capsules, cetirizine hydrochloride tablets, or ebastine tablets as directed by a physician. Avoid seafood strictly in the future.

4. Acute urticaria: Allergens in seafood trigger dilation of small blood vessels in the skin and mucous membranes, resulting in hives and severe itching. Patients should take medications such as fexofenadine hydrochloride tablets, desloratadine dry suspension, or chlorpheniramine maleate tablets as prescribed. In severe cases, epinephrine injection may be required.

5. Atopic dermatitis: Individuals with pre-existing atopic dermatitis may experience worsened inflammation, increased itching, and aggravated skin lesions due to irritants in seafood. Patients may use topical medications such as desonide cream, mometasone furoate cream, or tacrolimus ointment as directed by a physician, and keep the skin moisturized.

In daily life, it is important to identify personal allergens and inform restaurant staff of dietary restrictions when dining out. Cold compresses can help relieve skin itching, and wearing loose, cotton clothing reduces friction. Ensure seafood is thoroughly cooked to minimize allergenic risks.