The most common egg allergy symptoms present themselves on the skin and in the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. More severe symptoms are usually the result of anaphylaxis, a condition which can include impediment of breathing and loss of consciousness. Depending on the individual, symptoms can appear within minutes of contact with eggs or take hours to develop.
Some of the most common egg allergy symptoms appear on the skin. These include hives, swelling around the mouth, and general redness. There may also be an outbreak of eczema.
Egg allergy symptoms in the respiratory system tend to be similar to those from environmental allergies or the common cold. They include watery, itchy eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. Exposure may also bring on asthma symptoms, which can include wheezing and coughing.
The most common egg allergy symptoms in the gastrointestinal system are vomiting, cramps, and nausea. Some patients also experience diarrhea. Abdominal pain has been reported by individuals with the allergy as well.
Some of the most serious egg allergy symptoms are the result of anaphylaxis, which must receive emergency medical attention. One of the most common symptoms of the condition is a tightening of the airways that severely restricts the ability to breathe. A patient may also have a rapid pulse, lose consciousness, feel dizzy or lightheaded, and experience cramping or abdominal pain. Egg allergy symptoms this serious will usually be given an adrenaline shot, also known as an epi pen, to use in cases of anaphylaxis. Patients who get anaphylaxis from eggs can be so sensitive that even fumes may cause a reaction.
Egg allergies are most commonly found in children, though they are rare overall. Most young patients will eventually outgrow the allergy. While it is rare for children under five to overcome egg allergies, most will usually be able to eat them by the time they are sixteen. In order to determine if an allergy no longer exists, it is best to reintroduce the food under a doctor’s supervision.
Allergies to eggs can vary widely. In some cases, an individual may be allergic to only the yolk or white of the egg. As it is difficult to separate the two, many patients with this kind of allergy will still entirely avoid eggs. Other patients may only be allergic to the eggs of one or more types of bird, though this condition is rare.