Egg allergy is one of the most common food allergies in childhood, and it often occurs after consuming eggs or any product containing them, even in small amounts.
What is an egg allergy?
An egg allergy is an overreaction to the proteins found in egg whites or yolks. The immune system treats these proteins as harmful substances, leading to skin, digestive, and respiratory symptoms.
Causes of egg allergy in children
It occurs as a result of the immune system's reaction to egg proteins. Common causes include:
- Genetic factors from one of the parents.
- Immature immune system.
- Eating eggs at a very early age.
- A history of allergies to other foods.
Symptoms of egg allergy in children
Symptoms appear within minutes or hours of consuming eggs or foods containing them and include:
- Skin redness or itching.
- Swelling of the lips or eyes.
- Critic pain, vomiting, or diarrhea.
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing.
- Dizziness or low blood pressure in severe cases.
Complications of Egg Allergy
In some cases, symptoms may develop into serious complications, such as:
- A severe allergic reaction.
- Loss of consciousness or severe shortness of breath.
- A rapid heartbeat.
Diagnosis of egg allergy in children
Diagnosis is performed under the supervision of a specialist physician through a series of tests, including:
- Skin testing for allergies.
- Blood testing to detect antibodies.
- An egg abstinence test and monitoring for improvement.
Methods of treating egg allergy in children
Treatment aims to avoid allergens and control symptoms, and includes the following:
- Avoiding eggs and all products containing them.
- Using antihistamines to relieve mild symptoms.
- Carrying an emergency epinephrine injection in severe cases.
- Consult a doctor before giving your child any vaccine containing egg protein.
Tips for mothers dealing with egg allergy
To prevent recurrence of symptoms, it is recommended to:
- Read food ingredients carefully.
- Avoid baked goods and foods containing eggs.
- Prepare safe home-cooked meals.
- Inform the school or nursery about your child's condition.
Does an egg allergy go away with time?
Yes, in some cases the allergy gradually improves with age. This is usually noticed after school age, but the test should only be repeated under the supervision of a doctor.
Is an egg white allergy different from an egg yolk allergy?
Yes, some children are allergic to egg white proteins only, while others are allergic to the yolk. Therefore, the doctor determines the type of allergy based on tests.
Can an egg allergy affect vaccinations?
Some vaccines, such as the flu vaccine, may contain small amounts of egg protein, so it is important to consult a doctor before vaccination to determine its safety.
Article Summary
Egg allergy is a condition that can be easily managed by avoiding its triggers. With medical follow-up and appropriate nutritional alternatives, the child can grow up healthy and safe without experiencing symptoms.