Had shrimp last night, within two hours bottom lip swell. What can I put on it?

I don't know if there's anything you can put on your lip to reduce the swelling besides ice or a cold pack. Maybe somebody else can help with that better than me.

The bigger problem is the possibility that you experienced an allergic reaction to the shrimp. Do you know for sure if you are allergic to shrimp (or shellfish in general)? Have you seen a doctor (or a specialist, an allergist) to check?

This is important because if you are allergic to shrimp, but continue to eat them, you may run a higher risk of anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction that could kill you.

Better find out if you are allergic to shrimp. If so, don't eat them or any related seafood. Then you won't have to worry about swollen lips!

Hi Shirley,

By now, your lip swelling is probably not a concern. Joy B. provided good advice in the first answer. I want to endorse her recommendation for you to see a board certified allergist for testing to shellfish.

Many of my patients who have experienced severe and sometimes life threatening reactions to shrimp and other shellfish recall an early period (before the severe reaction) of tingling or mild lip swelling associated with eating shellfish. These symptoms may be warning signs of a future severe reaction if there is contact subsequent contact with shellfish.

I advise you to avoid all shellfish until you see your doctor or an allergy specialist. You should have an Epi-Pen or Twinject for emergency use in case of accidental exposure to shellfish that is accompanied by signs of anaphylaxis (progressive throat swelling, breathing problems or near fainting). These are prescription devices which allow you to inject yourself with epinephrine. Epinephrine may halt a serious allergic reaction within minutes. You must seek medical help immediately after the injection. Keep some Benadryl around for use if milder reactions recur.

Good Luck!

J. Thompson, MD

I had batter fried shrimp about 1:00 today.  My bottom lip is swollen and I seem to have broken out in hives I also have the chills and a stomache ache.  Should I seek medical attention or will this go way.  I'm  taking celalopram 40 mg daily.