Nikki Tamboli recalls being admitted to ICU after eating prawns: ‘My lungs collapsed’

She was then rushed to a hospital. “It was an emergency case. I was literally taken to the hospital in a wheelchair. I was told to get admitted to an ICU. I was there for two days so that the inflammation came down.”

Dr Narander Singla, lead consultant in internal medicine at CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, said the case highlights the seriousness of food allergies and the need for greater awareness and preparedness.

“Shellfish allergy is one of the most common food allergies in adults and can trigger severe, sometimes life-threatening reactions. It occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies proteins in shellfish as harmful invaders. In response, the body releases chemical mediators, like histamine, which lead to a cascade of symptoms ranging from mild skin irritation to dangerous respiratory and cardiovascular complications,” said Dr Singla.

Why do some people experience near-death effects?

Dr Singla noted that even a trace amount of the allergen can provoke a strong immune response in individuals with a shellfish allergy.

Shellfish allergy can cause various symptoms, including hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath. “In severe cases, it may lead to anaphylaxis, a medical emergency marked by narrowing of the airways, a sudden drop in blood pressure, and a rapid heartbeat. If not treated promptly, this can progress to respiratory failure, organ damage, or even death,” said Dr Singla.

While some reactions may present as mild hives or stomach discomfort, others can escalate rapidly into severe anaphylaxis or breathing issues. “Factors such as the amount of allergen ingested, individual sensitivity, or delayed treatment can contribute to the intensity of the reaction,” said Dr Singla.

Diagnosis and medical treatment

Proper diagnosis is key to managing shellfish allergy. Doctors typically begin with a detailed medical history, reviewing previous reactions after shellfish consumption. “Diagnostic tests may include skin prick tests, where a small amount of shellfish extract is applied to the skin to observe for allergic response, or blood tests that measure immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, markers of allergic sensitivity,” he said.

In mild cases, symptoms may settle within a few hours, said Dr Manjusha Agarwal, senior consultant, internal medicine, Gleneagles Hospital Parel, Mumbai. “In severe reactions, especially if breathing or heart function is affected, hospital observation for 2-3 days may be required for the patient,” said Dr Agarwal.

Here’s what to consider (Photo: Freepik)

Treatment focuses primarily on avoiding shellfish and all products containing it. “Individuals diagnosed with shellfish allergy are advised to carry epinephrine auto-injectors (such as an EpiPen), which can reverse severe reactions promptly. Antihistamines may also be prescribed to alleviate mild to moderate symptoms, though they are not a substitute for epinephrine in an emergency,” said Dr Singla.

What does recovery look like?

Recovery after a severe allergic reaction involves immediate medical attention, followed by close monitoring for complications such as biphasic anaphylaxis (a second wave of symptoms).

Post-recovery, the patient needs a follow-up consultation with an allergist to develop an allergy action plan. This plan typically includes education on reading food labels, recognizing early symptoms, and using epinephrine correctly, said Dr Singla.

If you suspect you may have a food allergy, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and to develop a management plan.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.