Navigating egg allergy

Written in association with: Dr Mugilan Anandarajan
Published:
Edited by: Kate Forristal

Egg allergy is among the most prevalent food allergies, particularly in children. While it can be concerning, understanding the condition and how to manage it can significantly reduce its impact on daily life. In his latest online article, Dr Mugilan Anandarajan provides a comprehensive overview to help you navigate this allergy with confidence.

What is egg allergy?

An egg allergy occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies proteins found in eggs as harmful. The immune system then releases chemicals, such as histamines, to combat these proteins, leading to allergic reactions. These reactions can range from mild to severe.

 

Symptoms of egg allergy

Symptoms of egg allergy can appear within a few minutes to a few hours after consuming eggs or foods containing eggs. Common symptoms include:

  • Skin reactions: Hives (raised, red, itchy welts), eczema (red, itchy, inflamed skin), or swelling.

 

  • Respiratory issues: Runny nose, sneezing, coughing, or wheezing.

 

  • Digestive problems: Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. 

 

  • Anaphylaxis: A severe and potentially life-threatening reaction that demands immediate medical attention. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat and tongue, rapid pulse, and a drop in blood pressure.

 

Diagnosing egg allergy

If you suspect an egg allergy, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional. Diagnosis typically involves:

  1. Medical history: A detailed discussion about symptoms and their timing in relation to egg consumption.

 

  1. Skin prick test: A small amount of egg protein is placed on the skin, which is then pricked to allow the protein to enter. If a raised bump develops, it indicates an allergic reaction.

 

  1. Blood test: Measures the immune system's response to eggs by detecting specific antibodies (proteins the body produces to fight off what it perceives as harmful).

 

  1. Oral food challenge: Under medical supervision, the patient consumes small amounts of egg to monitor for reactions. This test is considered the most accurate but also the riskiest and is performed only in a controlled environment.

 

Managing egg allergy

The primary treatment for egg allergy is strict avoidance of eggs and egg-containing products. This can be challenging as eggs are common in many foods. Reading food labels meticulously is essential. Look for terms like albumin, globulin, and lysozyme, which indicate the presence of egg proteins.

 

For mild allergic reactions, antihistamines can help alleviate symptoms. However, for those at risk of severe reactions, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) is crucial. This device can deliver a dose of epinephrine to counteract severe allergic reactions quickly.

 

Living with egg allergy

Managing egg allergy involves more than just avoiding eggs. Informing caregivers, teachers, and friends about the allergy ensures a safer environment. Additionally, many egg-free alternatives are available for cooking and baking, making it easier to maintain a balanced diet without eggs.

 

Regular follow-ups with an allergist can help monitor the allergy and any changes in its severity. In some cases, children may outgrow an egg allergy, but this should be confirmed through medical testing rather than experimentation.

 

Understanding and managing egg allergy can greatly improve quality of life. With the right knowledge and precautions, living with this allergy becomes manageable and less daunting.

 

Dr Mugilan Anandarajan is an esteemed consultant paediatrician. You can schedule an appointment with Dr Anandarajan on his Top Doctors profile.

By Dr Mugilan Anandarajan
Paediatrics

Dr Mugilan Anandarajan is a leading consultant paediatrician based in Belfast and Hillborough who specialises in allergies, acid reflux, cow's milk protein intolerance and respiratory problems alongside constipation, recurrent infections and abdominal pain. He privately practises at Kingsbridge Private Hospital Belfast, Ulster Independent Clinic and Hillsborough Private Clinic.

Dr Anandarajan, who is also a consultant paediatrician and the lead consultant for paediatric audit/quality improvement at Ulster Hospital, is highly qualified. He has an MB BS, MD, DCH, PGCert in Clinical Education and PGCert in Clinical Health Science (Allergy), and is a fellow of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health.

Dr Anandarajan is held in high regard for his expertise and holds various public positions. He is the ​​​trustee and honorary treasurer of the Ulster Paediatric Society, committee member of the south eastern trust and the honorary chairman of the British Medical Association's Northern Ireland Eastern Division.

He is also active in teaching and research at Queen's University, Belfast, and has had his work published in various peer-reviewed journals both nationally and internationally. Dr Anandarajan is also a member of various professional organisations. These include the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, the British Association of Perinatal Medicine and the American Academy of Paediatrics. Furthermore he is a member of the British Medical Association and the Ulster Paediatric Society.

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