EGG ALLERGIES

Overview & Facts

Egg allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to proteins in egg whites or yolks. People with an allergy to chicken eggs may also be allergic to other types of eggs, such as goose, duck, turkey or quail. The immune system considers egg protein as a foreign invader and releases chemicals to defend against it. These chemicals cause the signs and symptoms of egg allergy

Types & Symptoms

  • Skin reactions, such as swelling, a rash, hives or eczema
  • Wheezing or difficulty breathing
  • Runny nose and sneezingRed or watery eyes
  • Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
  • Anaphylaxis (less common)

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms. He may:

  • Ask you to keep a food diary of your eating habits, symptoms and medications to pinpoint the problem.
  • Perform a skin test to determine your reaction to small amounts of the proteins found in eggs.
  • Ask you to go on an “elimination diet” in which you temporarily stop eating eggs or other foods from your diet one at a time to see whether symptoms improve.
  • Ask you to take an “oral food challenge” in the clinic. You will be given small but increasing amounts of egg to see if there is a reaction.

 

TREATMENT

Once you are diagnosed with egg allergy, the best treatment is to avoid eggs and egg-containing products. Mild allergic reactions may be treated with antihistamines to reduce signs and symptoms.

However, a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) will require an emergency injection of epinephrine (adrenaline) in the hospital.

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