Eggs are one of the primary sources of protein and one of the most eaten breakfast foods among non-vegetarians. It can be boiled, fried, or scrambled or had as an omelette. Some people also use it as an ingredient in baked goods. While eggs are versatile and healthy, they aren’t for everyone. Surprisingly, some people may be intolerant, or even allergic, to the food.
To understand what an egg allergy is, how people can identify it, and ways to manage the condition, the OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Neeti Sharma, Head – Dietetics, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Faridabad.
Also Read: Can A 6 Months Old Baby Eat Eggs? Find Out Here
What Is An Egg Allergy?
An egg allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies the proteins in eggs as a harmful foreign invader, triggering an allergic reaction.
According to a 2012 study published in Pediatric Clinics of North America, hen’s egg allergy is the second most common food allergy in infants and young children after cow’s milk. The study further noted that egg allergy affects an estimated 0.5-2.5% of young children.
“More Common In Children”
Dr Sharma highlighted that an egg allergy is one of the most common food allergy types that are particularly common in children. However, adults can have them too. "Some adults may develop an egg allergy later in life; however, many children do outgrow egg allergies by late adolescence," she said.
According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, as many as 2% of children are estimated to be allergic to eggs. The good news is that studies show that about 70 percent of children with an egg allergy will outgrow the condition by age 16.
How To Know If You Have An Egg Allergy
Egg allergies can lead to several symptoms. Some of these symptoms include:
- Hives
- Rash
- Swelling (skin reactions)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea (stomach issues)
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Wheezing (respiratory problems)
- Anaphylaxis, or severe allergic reactions, which is a medical emergency
It is important to know that the test and diagnosis of an egg allergy cannot be determined effectively at home. “While people (usually parents of children) can identify symptoms immediately after eating, further medical assessment is important,” Dr Sharma said, adding that in order for a doctor to determine if there is a food allergy, they may do skin-prick testing, blood testing to measure IgE antibody levels, or oral food challenges under supervision.
Egg Allergy Vs. Egg Intolerance
It is important to know the difference between an egg allergy and egg intolerance.
“An allergy is the immune system's overreaction to the proteins found in eggs; intolerances usually include symptoms or discomfort related to digestion and do not include an immune reaction,” Dr Sharma explained.
Also Read: Why Some People Have Egg Intolerance: Possible Causes
Management Tips For Egg Allergy
Unfortunately, there is no cure for an egg allergy. If you have an egg allergy, the only way to manage it is by completely avoiding eggs and egg products of all kinds, emphasises Dr Sharma.
This will include:
- Checking food labels carefully
- Asking when eating at restaurants where food may be contained in sauces or dressed
- Baking with substitutes like flaxseed, chia seed, or applesauce
Conclusion
An egg allergy can be diagnosed either through medical tests and evaluations or only after contact with proteins in the eggs and the development of symptoms. Many remain unaware of their allergies because they do not consume eggs or egg-containing items at all. However, being aware of the condition can help prevent a reaction and get necessary treatments on time. Consult a doctor if you have any symptoms or signs of an allergy.