Adverse Reactions To Dha & Eggs

Eggs are a rich source of essential nutrients such as iron, phosphorus, zinc, as well as vitamins A, B-6 and E, the Egg Nutrition Center writes. Eggs also have sodium, calcium, folate, riboflavin and magnesium. Docosahexaenoic acid is an omega-3 fatty acid typically found in fish such as tuna and salmon. DHA lowers the risk of developing heart disease, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. Despite their nutritional value and health benefits, eggs and DHA can also cause adverse reactions.

Eggs and DHA

Eggs and DHA trigger adverse reactions in people that are allergic to them. One reason why eating eggs can trigger adverse reaction is that egg yolk contains DHA, according to a 2002 article in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition." Adverse reactions are also caused by allergies to the protein in eggs. Allergic reactions may sometimes result in death. Always seek medical attention at the first sign of an allergic reaction regardless of the severity of symptoms.

Skin and Breathing Problems

Egg allergies occur anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours after ingesting eggs, KidsHealth explains. One of the symptoms that manifests is hives. This is an adverse reaction affecting the skin and causing it to turn red and itchy. Rashes break out over sections of the skin such as your neck, chest and arms. Your facial area becomes swollen.

Gastrointestinal Adverse Reaction

DHA and eggs cause adverse reactions that affect your gastrointestinal tract such as stomach upset and abdominal discomfort, the University of Maryland Medical Center says. Diarrhea and belching are also possible adverse reactions. Epinephrine is sometimes required to alleviate severe allergic reactions to eggs. Antihistamine is an over-the-counter remedy that alleviates allergic reactions as well. Use antihistamine with epinephrine if allergic symptoms merit their use. But never use antihistamine as a substitute for the epinephrine shot when trying to alleviate severe symptoms.

Anaphylaxis

Sometimes an allergic reaction is so severe that it is life-threatening. Your airways become so swollen that breathing becomes difficult. This severe allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. In addition to impaired breathing, anaphylaxis causes your blood pressure to drop sharply and your heart rate to become rapid. Anaphylaxis causes you to feel light-headed and dizzy. Loss of consciousness is also another possible symptom. Anaphylaxis is fatal unless treated promptly. Seek immediate medical assistance to keep the symptoms from progressing further.