Eggs are among the most common foods that can prompt allergic reactions in infants and young children. While many children outgrow their egg allergy by the time they start school, some may continue to experience it throughout later childhood or adulthood in rare cases. Occasionally, egg allergies can also develop in grown-ups.
The allergic reaction is often caused by proteins found in the egg, particularly in the egg white. Babies with eczema are at a higher risk of getting an egg allergy. Additionally, having another food allergy, such as cow’s milk allergy, or a family history of allergies (atopy) further raises the likelihood.
Egg allergy symptoms can vary between individuals and typically appear shortly after exposure. Common symptoms include:
In severe cases, an egg allergy can result in anaphylaxis—a potentially life-threatening condition that necessitates immediate treatment with an epinephrine (adrenaline) injection and emergency medical attention. Signs of anaphylaxis include:
Egg allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to certain proteins in eggs, mistakenly identifying them as harmful. Upon exposure to these proteins, the immune system produces antibodies that trigger the release of histamine as well as other chemicals, leading to allergic symptoms.
Both the egg whites and yolk contain proteins likely to provoke allergies, although reactions to egg whites are more common. In some cases, breastfed infants may experience an allergic response to egg proteins present in breast milk, especially if the mother eats eggs.
Some of the factors that can increase the likelihood of an egg allergy include:
The most serious egg allergy complication is anaphylaxis. In addition, the immune system response that triggers egg allergy can increase the likelihood of developing other conditions. Individuals with an egg allergy may be at a higher risk of the following:
Egg allergy diagnosis is done using a combination of methods to rule out other potential causes of symptoms. In most cases, what appears to be an egg allergy may actually be food intolerance, which is less severe and isn’t linked to the immune system.
Your physician will first perform a physical examination and obtain a medical history. After that, one or more of these diagnostic tests may be recommended:
The most effective way of preventing symptoms of an egg allergy is to refrain from eggs and products containing eggs. However, some individuals with an egg allergy are likely to tolerate foods that include well-cooked eggs, like those found in baked goods.
Common treatment options for egg allergy include:
It’s important to know how to properly use the auto-injector. Ensure caregivers, teachers, and other responsible adults access and understand how to use it. Also, older children should be taught how to use the injector correctly. Remember to regularly check the expiration date and replace the injector as needed.
Many children outgrow their egg allergy over time. Consult your doctor about how often you should test to determine if eggs are still causing symptoms. Testing should always be done under medical supervision, especially if there has been a history of severe reactions, as it can be dangerous to test this at home.
If you have an egg allergy, avoiding foods that may contain eggs or egg-derived ingredients is important. Common foods to watch out for include:
Always check food labels for ingredients such as albumin, ovalbumin, or other egg-based terms. Moreover, inform staff about your allergy to ensure your meal is safe when dining out.
An egg allergy can be both frustrating and, in some cases, alarming. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and it’s natural to feel uncertain about what’s triggering them. However, a healthcare provider can offer clarity by conducting tests to diagnose an egg allergy. In addition, they can refer you to a professional dietitian who can provide guidance on safe foods and drinks to consume.
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