Egg Allergy in Children

Nowadays, allergies have become a very common ailment, and in children it is egg allergy that is the most prevalent. In fact, egg allergy is the second most common food allergy, after cows’ milk allergy in children. In most cases, egg allergy doesn’t pass onto adulthood and is quite rare in adults. According to various studies, egg allergy is usually outgrown by the time the children turn seven. Egg allergy occurs because in some children the various proteins in eggs cause an overreaction by the immune system. 

While the substances in eggs that trigger an allergic reaction are harmless for most children, in those who suffer from an allergy due to it, their immune system releases an army of antibodies called immunoglobulin E to counter the allergen. This leads to allergic reactions, which, in some cases, can be very severe, leading to anaphylaxis.

This is why parents of children with egg allergies should always be on their guard to prevent their wards from, knowingly or unknowingly, eating eggs or egg-based products. Given below are more information on egg allergy in children.

Symptoms Of Egg Allergy In Children

Red bumpy rashes develop on the skin soon after eating eggs. There is also redness and swelling around the mouth. The skin may also experience an outbreak of eczema.

Egg allergy can also result in vomiting, nausea, belly cramps or diarrhea.

The allergy can also trigger asthma with coughing and wheezing. Other respiratory symptoms include runny nose and sneezing. The eyes also start itching and watering.

It can lead to anaphylaxis, though this is rare in egg allergy compared to other food allergies. Certain signs can show if the child has suffered an anaphylactic reaction. These signs are pain and cramp in the abdomen, a drastic drop in blood pressure, rapid pulse and dizziness and loss of consciousness.

Diagnosis Of Egg Allergy In Children

The symptoms generally appear within minutes to couple of hours after ingesting or coming in physical contact with eggs.

The allergy can be confirmed with an allergy skin prick test or an RAST test.

In addition, physical examination and medical history of the child will help in correctly diagnosing if the child is suffering from egg allergy.

Treatment Of Egg Allergy In Children

To avoid an allergic reaction, it is always better to avoid eggs and egg based products altogether. Make sure that the child also doesn’t come in contact with eggs as in some cases allergic reactions can be triggered when the egg touches the skin.

Antihistamine medications can help in controlling the minor reactions. These medicines will also provide relief to the child.

In case of anaphylactic reactions due to egg allergy, epinephrine must be administered. That is why the guardians of those children with severe egg allergy should carry a injection of epinephrine with them since anaphylactic reactions can be very severe and quick.

As always, prevention is better than cure, so it is better to scan each food products to make sure that no eggs have been used. Make a list of all the foods that the child must avoid.