What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing symptoms like hives, itching, swelling, stomach upset, or breathing trouble after eating shrimp or other shellfish. It checks whether your immune system has developed a sensitivity to shrimp proteins. It's also useful if you suspect a shellfish allergy but haven't had a reaction confirmed yet.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what a positive or negative value means. If your result is positive, a practical next step is to avoid shrimp and watch for reactions when eating foods that may cross-contact with shellfish, and consider retesting if your symptoms change over time. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and the trends feature lets you track this result alongside future tests. If you ever have a severe reaction like difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat, seek emergency medical care right away.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone who has had an unexplained reaction after eating shrimp or shellfish, such as hives, swelling, or stomach issues, should consider this test. It's also helpful for people with a family history of shellfish allergies or those who want to confirm a suspected sensitivity before eliminating shrimp from their diet unnecessarily. Parents wondering if a child's reaction was linked to shrimp may also find this useful.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include hives, itchy skin, swelling of the lips or face, stomach cramps, nausea, or vomiting shortly after eating shrimp. Some people notice a runny nose, coughing, or wheezing, while more severe reactions can cause trouble breathing or dizziness. If any of these symptoms happen after eating shellfish, this test can help identify shrimp as a possible trigger.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your lab visit. Once ready, they'll be available in your online account where you can view and download them anytime.

How can I naturally support my immune response to food sensitivities?

Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help support overall immune balance. Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep also helps your body manage inflammation. If shrimp is confirmed as a trigger, the most effective step is simply avoiding it and reading food labels carefully to prevent hidden exposure.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means your immune system has made antibodies (called IgE) against shrimp proteins, which suggests you're sensitized to this allergen. This doesn't automatically mean you'll have a reaction every time you eat shrimp, but it does mean the potential is there. Pairing this result with your history of symptoms after eating shrimp gives the clearest picture of whether you have a true allergy.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means no significant shrimp-specific antibodies were found, making a shrimp allergy less likely. However, if you still have symptoms after eating shrimp, other foods or ingredients in the dish could be the cause. Keeping a food and symptom diary can help pinpoint other possible triggers.

How often should I retest?

If you've eliminated shrimp from your diet and want to check if your sensitivity has changed, retesting every 1-2 years is a reasonable timeframe. Children sometimes outgrow food sensitivities, so periodic retesting can be especially useful for them. If your symptoms change or worsen, testing sooner can help you stay informed.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result is positive, start by avoiding shrimp and shellfish that may cross-contaminate with shrimp during preparation. Read ingredient labels carefully, since shrimp can appear in sauces, seasonings, and processed foods. If you experience a severe reaction like swelling or trouble breathing at any point, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Shrimp Allergy IgE Test - Shellfish Sensitivity Check

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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