Egg allergy occurs as a result of immune responses to proteins found in egg whites and yolks. It is the second most common allergies in children and begins in infancy but usually disappears during late childhood. In some cases, the condition may persist throughout an entire lifetime.  

Mechanism of the allergic reaction

Eggs are a major source of dietary protein. Compared to yolks, egg whites have a richer supply of food proteins. Among the 40 different proteins found in egg white, the most abundant three namely ovalbumin, ovotransferrin, and ovomucoid are the common causes of IgE-mediated hypersensitivity reaction. This happens when the body mistakes these harmless proteins for an invader and release histamine and other chemicals. Histamine is responsible for most of the symptoms in egg allergies like:

• tingling sensation and redness around the mouth
• hives
• angioedema
• In rare cases, people may develop cutaneous symptoms (itching and redness) while handling egg products like shampoo and cosmetics.

Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea may also accompany the aforementioned manifestations. In some cases, the allergy may manifest as cough, wheezing, and trouble in breathing that may be a sign of allergic asthma. Egg allergies may also cause an emergency situation called, anaphylaxis. Symptoms may appear within minutes up to hours after ingestion usually won’t last for more than a day.

What your Doctor can do for you

Food allergies often resemble symptoms of food intolerance. For this reason, diagnostic tests are performed to rule out other disorders. Prick (skin) test would often reveal the presence of an hypersensitivity disorder while blood tests determine the presence of certain antibodies. Food challenges may be ordered to further conclude the diagnosis. Symptoms usually subside within 24 hours. In serious reactions, the patient will be prescribed epinephrine to be carried with him at all times.

What you can do

All eggs and egg products should be avoided—whether it’s chicken, duck, turkey, or quail as a person that is allergic to one type may also be allergic to another. Pastries and baked goods may contain eggs, as well as eggnog, ice cream, and some medicines. Keep an eye on children who are likely to eat anything that is given to them. If possible, educate them about egg products like mayonnaise, marshmallow, and frostings, and maintain an egg-free diet. You might also want to try egg substitutes for cooking.  

Talk to your doctor before getting flu shots. Some vaccines may contain a small amount of protein that may be significant enough to set off allergic responses.