Fish Allergy Treatment
in San Mateo, CA

The Allergy & Asthma Clinic offers specialized treatment for fish allergies, grounded in decades of clinical experience and meticulous patient monitoring. The immune system response can vary widely between individuals, requiring ongoing assessment and adjustment. Therefore, treatment at our clinic is not a one-time fix but a continuous process tailored to how the body adapts over time. We are dedicated to managing allergies with precision and attentiveness, aiming to give patients confidence and improve their well-being.

Table Of Contents

What Is a Fish Allergy?

What to Expect During an Appointment

Fish Allergy Treatments

How Long Does It Take to Treat a Fish Allergy?

Candidates for Fish Allergy Treatment

Benefits of Fish Allergy Treatment

Cost of Fish Allergy Treatment in San Mateo, CA

What Makes Our Allergy Treatments Different From Others?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is a Fish
Allergy?

A fish allergy is a condition in which the immune system reacts abnormally to proteins found in certain types of fish. Instead of recognizing these proteins as harmless, the immune system mistakenly identifies them as a threat and triggers a defensive response. This reaction can affect various parts of the body, even though fish is otherwise a nutritious food. Fish allergies can develop at any age and may persist throughout life. It is essential to understand that this allergy involves the immune system’s specific sensitivity to fish proteins, not a general intolerance or digestive issue.

Symptoms of Fish Allergy

Skin reactions such as itching or hives
Swelling of the lips, face, or throat
Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Dizziness or lightheadedness

What to Expect During an Appointment

Physical Examination

During your appointment, our doctor will begin with a detailed review of your medical history and any past allergic reactions. We will then perform a physical examination to look for signs that may support the presence of an allergy. This helps rule out other possible causes and guides the next steps in testing and treatment.

Allergy Test Results

To confirm a diagnosis, we may recommend a combination of tests such as a skin prick test, a blood test, or, in some cases, supervised oral food challenges. These methods help determine how your immune system responds to specific fish proteins. Your results will be thoroughly reviewed to ensure an accurate diagnosis and to guide your treatment plan.

Customized Treatment Plan

Based on your test results and personal needs, our experienced allergist will create a customized treatment plan specifically tailored to you. This may include medication to manage reactions or prevent future symptoms. Our goal is to ensure that every person receives care that fits their lifestyle and health goals.

Fish Allergy Treatments

Avoidance

The most effective way to manage a fish allergy is to avoid the allergen completely. This includes carefully reading food labels, asking about ingredients when dining out, and staying informed about hidden sources of fish in sauces, broths, or processed foods. Avoidance requires vigilance and preparation, but it plays a central role in preventing allergic reactions.

Epinephrine Auto-Injectors and Nasal Sprays (Emergency Treatment)

For individuals at risk of severe allergic reactions, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector or nasal spray is essential. This emergency medication works quickly to reverse life-threatening symptoms and should be administered immediately after exposure to fish. We help patients develop a Food Allergy Action Plan with clear instructions on what to do in the event of accidental exposure.

Oral Immunotherapy

Oral immunotherapy (OIT) involves gradually introducing small amounts of fish protein in increasing doses to build the body’s tolerance over time. While it can be effective for some individuals, OIT carries the risk of allergic reactions during treatment and often requires a long-term commitment to daily dosing and strict food avoidance outside of therapy.

XOLAIR

XOLAIR (omalizumab) is an FDA-approved treatment that offers a promising option for many individuals with fish allergies, especially those at risk for severe or life-threatening reactions. Unlike oral immunotherapy, which targets only one specific allergen, XOLAIR works by blocking IgE—the antibody responsible for triggering allergic responses—providing broad protection against multiple food allergens, including fish. It is administered via injection and has been shown to reduce the severity of allergic reactions and lower the likelihood of anaphylaxis in the event of accidental exposure. XOLAIR is generally well-tolerated, with fewer side effects than OIT, and it begins working within weeks rather than months. Thus, this mediation is very helpful in treating food allergies.

Sublingual Immunotherapy

Sublingual immunotherapy is a non-invasive treatment that delivers tiny doses of an allergen under the tongue to help desensitize the immune system over time. It may be considered for patients with milder sensitivities or as an alternative for those who prefer a less intensive approach than OIT.

How Long Does It
Take to Treat a Fish
Allergy?

Treating a fish allergy is often a long-term process aimed at reducing sensitivity and preventing severe reactions. For many individuals, strict avoidance remains necessary indefinitely, especially when the allergy is severe. However, emerging treatments like immunotherapy may offer the possibility of gradually training the immune system to tolerate small amounts of fish protein. In some cases, individuals may eventually be able to eat certain types of fish, but this varies widely based on the person’s response to treatment. Ongoing care and regular evaluations are crucial for monitoring progress and adjusting the plan as needed.

Candidates for Fish Allergy Treatment

Fish allergy treatment can be considered for a wide range of individuals who are managing allergic reactions to fish. Whether symptoms are mild or severe, identifying appropriate candidates is the first step toward developing a personalized care plan. Our treatments can benefit:

Patients diagnosed with a confirmed fish allergy
People experiencing ongoing allergic reactions to fish
Individuals with a family history of seafood allergies

Patients with anxiety related to accidental exposure
Those who have previously experienced anaphylaxis from fish
People seeking evaluation after a recent allergic episode

Benefits of Fish
Allergy Treatment

Fish allergy treatment can offer meaningful improvements for individuals managing the challenges of living with a food allergy. With the right approach, many patients find it easier to navigate daily life and feel more in control of their health. Our patients may experience the following benefits:

Reduced risk of severe allergic reactions
Increased confidence when eating outside the home
Relief from constant worry about hidden ingredients
Improved quality of life through greater dietary freedom
Fewer disruptions to travel, school, or social activities
Better long-term allergy management strategies

Cost of Fish Allergy
Treatment in San
Mateo, CA

The cost of fish allergy treatment in San Mateo, CA, can vary widely depending on several factors. These include whether allergy testing or treatment is covered by insurance, the specific type of tests used (such as skin prick or blood tests), fees charged by the provider, and any follow-up services required.

Schedule a consultation at the Allergy & Asthma Clinic today! Dr. Engler and his team will assess your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan for your specific needs.

What Makes Our
Allergy Treatments
Different From
Others?

The Allergy & Asthma Clinic approaches fish allergy treatment with a focus on long-term care and understanding how the immune system interacts with the body. Patients return on a regular basis to ensure their treatment remains effective and is adjusted as needed. Our clinic combines expert knowledge with the latest treatments in allergy medicine to support each person’s unique needs. This consistent, thoughtful approach helps reduce anxiety and builds confidence in managing the allergy over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can patients have multiple food allergies?

Yes, it is common for patients to have more than one food allergy. Many individuals diagnosed with a fish allergy may also be allergic to other foods, such as shellfish, nuts, or eggs. Understanding the full range of allergies helps guide safe management and treatment.

Is accidental exposure to allergens, such as fish or tree nuts, dangerous for my health?

Accidental exposure to allergens can be dangerous, especially for those with fish, milk, peanut, tree nut, and shellfish allergies, which are known to cause severe reactions. Additionally, environmental allergens such as pollen and mold can sometimes exacerbate overall allergy symptoms, increasing sensitivity. It is essential to take precautions to avoid exposure whenever possible.

How to handle an allergic reaction if it happens before an appointment?

If a severe reaction occurs before a scheduled visit, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention immediately. Using prescribed emergency medications, such as epinephrine, can be life-saving. After stabilizing, patients should inform the clinic and schedule a follow-up visit for further evaluation.

Are allergy shots used to treat fish allergy?

Allergy shots are not commonly used to treat fish allergies at this time. Treatment typically focuses on avoidance and emergency preparedness. Other specialized therapies may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Do you serve patients from the San Francisco Bay Area?

Yes, patients from across the San Francisco Bay Area, including those from Menlo Park, San Jose, and Oakland, are welcome at our locations in San Mateo and Daly City. Our clinic serves a broad community with comprehensive allergy care.