Egg-based allergies are one of the most common types of food allergies, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Most children with egg-based allergies outgrow the hypersensitivity before the age of 5. The allergy is a reaction to different proteins found in an egg. Some people are allergic to the proteins in the yolk, and others are allergic to the white. Only an allergist can pinpoint the type of proteins that are causing the allergy.
About Allergies
An allergic reaction is a malfunction of the immune system, according to MayoClinic.com. The proteins in an egg are mistaken as harmful substances. The body attacks the proteins, attempting to rid them from the body. During this attack, the immune system releases antibodies and high levels of histamine, the chemical that causes most allergic-reaction symptoms.
Effect
The effects of an allergic reaction to eggs are hives, asthma symptoms, gastrointestinal complications and nasal and eye irritation. Asthma symptoms from an egg-based allergy include shortness of breath, chest discomfort and wheezing, according to KidsHealth from Nemours. The sinuses become congested, and the eyes become watery and itchy.
Treatment
Treating an egg-based allergy begins with proper diagnosis. Allergy tests should be done to determine the exact proteins causing the reaction. Once the allergy is identified, consumption of eggs should be avoided. A mild egg-based allergic reaction is treated with over-the-counter antihistamines. More severe reactions may require emergency medical attention.
Considerations
Avoiding foods that are egg based can be challenging. Many ingredients in food products contain eggs, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. For example, ovalbumin, lecithin and globulin all contain egg proteins. The Food and Drug Administration requires all packaged food to disclose highly allergic foods, such as eggs. Read the labels of all packaged foods before buying them.
According to Dr. Paul Roumeliotis, former director of the Montreal Children's Hospital Pediatric Consultation and Asthma Centers in Canada, measles, mumps and rubella vaccine may cause an allergic reaction in a child with an egg allergy. Any parent whose child has an egg allergy should discuss the advisability of vaccinations with her child's pediatrician.
Complications
A possible complication of an egg-based allergy is anaphylactic shock. Anaphylactic shock is an extreme allergic reaction that could be life-threatening. Symptoms are a rapid pulse, a drop in blood pressure and a lightheaded feeling, according to MayoClinic.com. Other complications include hay fever, eczema and allergies to other foods, such as milk and soy.
