Sinus pain as a result from eating egg whites is a sign of an allergic reaction to egg proteins. Sinus pain is the result of nasal inflammation that causes the sinuses to swell and places pressure on the surrounding areas of the head, according to the University of Maryland. If you experience sinus pain every time you eat egg whites, talk with your doctor for a proper diagnosis of your condition. An egg allergy could cause a life-threatening reaction and needs to be assessed by your physician.
Egg White Allergy
Different proteins are in egg whites and the egg yolk. People can develop an allergy to one or both portions of the egg. If you have an allergy to egg whites, when you eat egg whites, your immune system thinks the proteins are harmful invaders in the body, according to Kids Health. The immune system attempts to fight off the egg white proteins by creating antibodies that specifically attack the proteins. The antibodies cause mast cells to create higher levels of histamine throughout the body.
Sinus Pain Cause
Histamine causes inflammation in soft tissue, such as the sinuses. Once histamine is released in the nasal cavity, the sinuses become swollen, leading to congestion. The increased swelling keeps you from breathing freely through the nose and you are unable to properly drain mucus through the nostrils. The swollen sinus cavity presses on various parts of the face and head, leading to pain. You can feel the pain in the eyes, teeth or behind the cheek bones, according to the University of Maryland.
Sinus Symptoms
Common sinus symptoms from an egg white allergy are a runny nose, postnasal drip, nasal congestion, sinus pressure, facial sensitivity, pain and sneezing. If your nasal discharge develops into a thick and yellow secretion along with a fever, you should talk with your doctor. Congested sinuses can cause bacteria to set in, leading to a sinus infection.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms that may develop from an egg white allergy are nausea, vomiting, cramping and diarrhea. Asthma symptoms may result from an egg white allergy. These symptoms may include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, wheezing and excessive coughing. Skin rashes can also develop, such as eczema, general itching and hives.
Treatment
Avoid consuming egg whites to prevent allergic sinus symptoms. If you accidentally ingest egg whites, take an oral antihistamine and decongestant. An antihistamine will reduce the amount of histamine in the body and a decongestant will alleviate nasal congestion and sinus pain.
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