We all know that eggs are a very nutritious food. But some people, especially young children, can have various problems when they eat eggs. Sometimes they can be unimaginably severe. So today we are going to talk about this egg allergy, or `(Egg Allergy)`. If you, or someone in your family, has this condition, then this story will be very important for you.
What is Egg Allergy?
Simply put, an egg allergy is when our immune system overreacts to certain proteins in eggs. To be precise, our immune system, which is like our body's defense system, recognizes egg proteins as an enemy and starts a fight. This is called an allergic reaction.
Most often, this allergy is caused by chicken eggs , but some people can also be allergic to other animal eggs, such as duck, turkey, and quail eggs.
Most importantly: Egg allergies can be severe and sometimes life-threatening . If you experience severe symptoms, such as a swollen throat and difficulty breathing, you should go to the nearest hospital immediately or call 911. This is not something to take lightly.
How common is this?
You might be surprised to learn that egg allergy is the second most common food allergy in children . But doctors say that only about 2% of children have it. That means it's not that common. It's more common in children than in adults.
But there is good news! About half of children with this allergy will outgrow it by the age of 5. And, by the age of 16, about 70% of children will have completely outgrown this allergy. Another thing is that about 70% of children with egg allergies can tolerate egg proteins that have been cooked well (for example, in a cake).
What are the symptoms of an egg allergy?
Symptoms usually begin within a few minutes of eating an egg. However, these symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people may experience only mild symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms.
Commonly seen symptoms:
- Stomach ache
- Diarrhea
- Cough
- Red spots or rashes on the skin (Hives)
- Itching (Pruritus)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Skin rashes
- Numbness or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
Severe symptoms (these are dangerous!):
If you experience these symptoms, it could be a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction called ``Anaphylaxis.'' If not treated immediately, it can be fatal.
- Confusion
- Difficulty breathing (Dyspnea)
- Difficulty swallowing food (Dysphagia)
- Dizziness
- Sudden drop in blood pressure (Hypotension)
- Syncope
- Feeling of tightness in the chest or throat
Why does this egg allergy occur?
If you have an egg allergy, your immune system is overreacting to certain proteins in eggs. Most often, the proteins that cause this allergy are found in the egg whites .
When you first eat eggs, your body produces an antibody called `(Immunoglobulin E - IgE)`. This `(IgE)` antibody binds to allergic cells called `(Mast Cells)` in your skin, respiratory system (airways), and cardiovascular system. Then, when you eat eggs again, this `(IgE)` antibody recognizes the egg proteins and releases a chemical called `(Histamine)`. This `(Histamine)` is what causes allergy symptoms.
These `(IgE)` reactions occur quickly after eating eggs. Sometimes they can progress to more severe conditions like `(Anaphylaxis).`
The difference between Egg Intolerance and Egg Allergy
Sometimes, eating eggs can cause other problems. It is called ``Egg Intolerance'' or the inability to tolerate eggs. This is nothing more than an ``IgE'' antibody. Here, the reaction takes a while to occur, sometimes up to 48 hours. The symptoms usually occur in the ``Gastrointestinal - GI'' area of the body.
- Stomach pain
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
Don't confuse the two. Allergy is the one that can be dangerous.
What are the main proteins that cause egg allergies?
Several proteins in eggs can contribute to this. The main ones are:
- Ovomucoid: This is found in egg whites.
- Ovotransferrin: This is not easily broken down by heat. So if you are allergic to it, you may not be able to eat raw eggs, as well as boiled or fried eggs.
- Ovalbumin: This breaks down when heated well. So you may not experience allergic symptoms from eating well-cooked eggs.
- Lysozyme: About 30% of people with egg allergies have a sensitivity to this.
Who is most affected by this allergy?
Anyone can develop an egg allergy, but it is most common in children under the age of 5. Most children outgrow this allergy as their digestive systems mature.
If one of my children has an egg allergy, will the others develop it too?
No, it doesn't have to be that way. Even if you, the child's other parent, or a sibling has an egg allergy, you should still introduce eggs to all other children in the same way.
How do you know for sure if you have an egg allergy?
If you think you or your child may have symptoms of an egg allergy, be sure to see a doctor . He or she may refer you to an allergist/immunologist. They will ask you questions like:
- Does anyone in your family have egg or other food allergies?
- Has a doctor previously diagnosed you with food allergies?
- What are your symptoms?
- When do symptoms start?
- Do you use over-the-counter (OTC) medications for these symptoms?
- Do you keep a diary of what you eat and drink?
What are the diagnostic tests?
An allergist may perform various tests depending on your symptoms.
- Skin Prick Test:
This involves applying a small amount of egg white to your skin. First, clean the skin on your arm or back, put a drop of egg white liquid on it, and gently scrape the skin. This doesn't hurt much, and it doesn't bleed. After about 15 minutes, you check to see if the area is red or swollen. You can do this test in less than an hour.
- Blood test `(IgE Blood Test):
Here, a small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm and sent to a lab. The lab adds egg protein to the blood sample and measures the level of ``(IgE)`` antibodies in it. The results can take about a week to come back.
- Graded Oral Challenge / Food Challenge:
This test is done to confirm whether you have an egg allergy. It is done under the supervision of a doctor. You are given a small amount of egg (perhaps a soft-boiled egg or a baked egg) and are asked to watch for any reaction. This can take about four hours.
Is it possible to completely get rid of egg allergy?
If you or your child has an egg allergy, the only way to prevent a reaction is to avoid eggs and all foods containing eggs. Agencies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) require food manufacturers to clearly list allergens on food labels. Our country also has similar laws.
Some egg-free foods may be manufactured in the same facilities that process egg-containing foods, so be aware of labels that say things like "Made in a facility that processes eggs."
Since most children outgrow this allergy, your child may not need any special treatment. However, if the allergy does not go away, you may want to talk to an allergist about treatments that reduce food sensitivities, such as Oral Immunotherapy (OIT).
What are the special medications for severe egg allergy?
If you have a severe egg allergy, your doctor will prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector, also known as an EpiPen®. This can quickly treat the symptoms of a severe reaction, such as anaphylaxis. You should keep this with you at all times. Your doctor will explain how to use it.
But if you have an egg intolerance or a non-IgE allergy, you don't need this epinephrine.
Side effects of the Epinephrine injection:
These are usually not serious and go away quickly.
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Increased sweating
- Nausea
- Tiredness
What should someone with an egg allergy expect?
Living with an egg allergy can be challenging at times. Symptoms can be mild or severe. Just because you had a mild reaction last time doesn't mean you'll have the same reaction next time. It can be severe. If you've had a severe reaction before, you're more likely to have a severe reaction again.
However, if you are careful, you and your child can continue to do their daily activities as normal. Doctors can refer you to resources, support groups, and dietitians to help you.
As young children get older and their digestive systems mature, egg allergies may go away. Therefore, it is a good idea to see an allergist every year for testing .
How to prevent an allergic reaction to eggs?
The best thing to do is to avoid foods, drinks, medications, and any other products containing eggs and egg proteins.
- Always check the ingredient label on packaged foods.
- If you are unsure whether a product contains eggs, do not use it until you have confirmed with the manufacturer.
Is it safe to get the flu shot if I have an egg allergy?
Yes, it is safe to get the flu vaccine. Most flu vaccines contain small amounts of egg protein. But even if you have an egg allergy, it is still safe to get it. If you are still concerned, talk to your doctor about egg-free flu shots. Flublok® Quadrivalent and Flucelvax® Quadrivalent are two such egg-free options.
If I have an egg allergy, how can I take care of myself?
These tips will help you a lot:
- Always be aware of what you are eating. Even if you have eaten a food that was okay the last time, check the label before eating it again. Manufacturers may change the recipe and add eggs.
- If your child has an egg allergy, teach him not to take food from friends or classmates.
- When eating out, tell the waiter you have an egg allergy. Ask for details about the ingredients and how the food is prepared.
- Wear a Medical Alert Bracelet or carry a card with information about your egg allergy.
- Enter this information into your phone's Medical Emergency settings or app.
- Talk to your doctor about how to prepare for a reaction. He or she may prescribe an epinephrine auto-injector. You should always carry it with you.
If you have an egg allergy, what foods should you avoid?
Some common foods that may contain eggs:
- Baked foods (cakes, buns, biscuits)
- Breaded foods
- Cake and Pie Fillings
- Custard
- Eggnog
- Marshmallows
- Mayonnaise
- Veggie meats
- Pasta (some types)
- Pretzels (some types)
- Processed meats
- Pudding
- Salad dressings
Think about it, sometimes there may be eggs in foods we don't even think about. For example, eggs are used in some sauces, soups, and ice creams. So always read the label carefully.
When should I see a doctor?
If you develop symptoms after eating eggs or products containing eggs, see a doctor immediately.
When should I go to the Emergency Department (ETU) ?
If you start to experience symptoms of ``Anaphylaxis'' or feel like you can't breathe, go to the emergency room immediately or call 911.
What questions should I ask the doctor?
- How do you tell if I have an egg allergy?
- When can I introduce eggs to my baby?
- Will my child's egg allergy go away?
- Are there support groups for people with egg allergies or their parents?
- Can you recommend a dietitian?
How do I know if I have an egg sensitivity?
If you experience mild symptoms after eating eggs, you may have an egg sensitivity. If you think you have ``Egg Intolerance'', talk to a doctor.
How long does an egg allergy last?
About 70% of children with egg allergies outgrow it by the age of 16. But some may never outgrow it.
Can you develop an egg allergy later in life?
Yes, it is possible to develop a new egg allergy later in life.
Final Take-Home Message
Egg allergy can be a confusing and scary situation at times. Symptoms can be mild or severe. It can be overwhelming and confusing, but a doctor can help. They can run tests to confirm whether you have an egg allergy and refer you to a dietitian to help you find the best foods to eat.
Remember:
- If in doubt, avoid eggs and products containing eggs.
- Always read food labels.
- If you have severe allergies, always keep an EpiPen® with you.
- Follow medical advice.
Don't worry. With awareness and care, you can stay healthy even with an egg allergy. You are not alone, there are many people to talk to and get help from.
` Egg allergy, egg allergy, childhood allergies, food allergies, anaphylaxis, IgE, epinephrine
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