Eggs are one of the most highly allergenic foods behind milk proteins and soy proteins, according to the La Leche League website. Egg proteins are passed through breast milk. It can be difficult to pinpoint an allergy to eggs because many of the symptoms of an egg allergy are similar to symptoms of other allergies. A pediatrician or allergist can determine if your infant is allergic to eggs or another food.
Symptoms of an Allergy to Eggs
The symptoms of an allergy to eggs are similar to the symptoms of other food allergies. For example, many infants are colicky, vomit, have abdominal pain, are constipated or have diarrhea, have a skin rash or eczema, swelling, welts or hives, refuse to nurse, have wheezing or have a stuffy nose. These symptoms indicate that an allergy may be present, according to the Auckland Allergy Clinic. However, they may also indicate that your child has an illness. Only a physician or allergist can determine if your child has a food allergy or an allergy to eggs.
Foods to Avoid
Many foods contain eggs. If your child has a confirmed allergy to eggs, you should avoid every food that contains eggs while you are breast feeding. Read the ingredients carefully on food packaging. For example, many Asian dishes, such as fried rice, contain eggs. In addition, battered foods, meatloaf, cake mixes, icing, mayonnaise, pudding, mousse, prepared soups, naan bread, sausage, salad dressing, baked goods and vegetarian meat substitutes all may contain eggs, according to the Children's Hospital at Westmead website.
Testing
The only way to determine for certain if your infant has an allergy to eggs is to undergo the pin-prick allergy test. This test involves placing small amounts of allergens on the child's skin and pricking the skin under each allergen. If the skin reacts, the child has an allergy. Some physicians may hesitate to have an infant undergo this test because they may have a severe reaction to an allergen. Infants may not survive a bout of anaphylactic shock.
When to Consult a Pediatrician
Consult a pediatrician if your infant shows signs of having an allergic reaction to a substance in your breast milk, especially if you have a strong family history of allergy. Your child has a greater chance of developing an allergy to a substance in your breast milk if you have a family history of allergy, according to the La Leche League website. Do not attempt to eliminate foods from your diet on your own or go on a special diet without permission from your physician.
