Sheila Coovrey, aged 71 from Bedfordshire, has lived with a fish allergy for most of her life.
“Every time I had fish as a young child, I would always vomit. But at that time, allergies were not widely recognised so my mum carried on giving it to me. As I grew up, if I was ever given fresh fish I would vomit, have bad pains in my stomach and sometimes even faint.
“I can eat fish which is tinned or smoked but any other form makes me very ill. Throughout my life, I have simply avoided eating fish. There is no other treatment. The best method is to simply avoid it.
“I have to be very careful in restaurants. I always explain my allergy when I go to a restaurant and have to make sure my food isn't cooked with fish. Food labels now state allergens more clearly so it's easier for me to make sure I don’t eat anything with fish in. I always check labels.
“The worst experience with my allergy was when I ate paella in a restaurant and didn’t realise there was fish in it. I vomited and then passed out in the middle of the restaurant.
“My advice to people with a food allergy is to see your GP and take any tests that are offered so you know exactly what you're allergic to. Always check labels carefully and be vigilant in restaurants, at weddings and any other social functions.”
