Egg white allergy is caused due to the proteins present in the white of the egg. More number of people are allergic to egg white than egg yolk. Some people are allergic to both egg white and egg yolk. The only way to prevent egg white allergy is to avoid egg and foods containing eggs. However, the good news is that many kids outgrow egg allergy by the time they are 5 years.
People with egg white allergy may tolerate cooked egg. So, if you have egg white allergy, check with your doctor if you can tolerate cooked egg.
What Causes Egg White Allergy?
Egg white allergy is caused when the body mistakenly identifies the proteins in the egg white as harmful and reacts against it. This results in an allergic reaction. A person with egg white allergy has to avoid the whole egg, as traces of egg white proteins can be present even if you separate the yolk.
Symptoms of Egg White Allergy:
Eating, touching or smelling the egg can result in an allergy. Egg white allergy can be severe leading to diarrhea, dizziness, and breathlessness. A severe allergic reaction can be prevented by injecting epinephrine. Some of the symptoms of egg white allergy are:
- Rashes
- Eczema
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Breathlessness
Preventing Egg Allergy:
- Cooking the egg can help people in overcoming egg white allergy. So, do ask your doctor if you can eat cooked egg
- Read the food labels and avoid those products which contain egg. Food labeling laws require egg to be clearly stated if it is present in the food product
- Egg can be used in cakes, baked foods, and also in creams, craft products. So, people with egg white allergy should be careful while handling such products
- Flu vaccines and other vaccines can contain egg derivatives. Inform your doctor before getting your child vaccinated
If you suspect egg white allergy, do consult an allergist. He/she can conduct blood test (RAST) or skin prick test to check if you have egg white allergy. After this, you can be prescribed antihistamines, corticosteroids to overcome egg allergy.
