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