Egg allergies are one of the most common food allergies experienced by infants and young children. Thankfully, by following an egg allergy treatment plan from a certified Atlanta food allergist, severe symptoms are usually preventable. However, many parents are not fully aware of the risks of allergies, and don’t seek the assistance of a food allergy doctor. If you or your child are exhibiting allergy symptoms, here are the main ways an allergist will treat an egg allergy.
How a Food Allergist Treats Egg Allergies
Food allergists have various treatments available to them, always depending on the needs of each patient. Typical treatment plans will usually contain one or more of the following elements.
Allergy Testing
The first step in treating an egg allergy is to confirm the diagnosis via allergy testing. Commonly, a diagnosis is confirmed using a skin prick test, where a small amount of egg protein is placed on the skin, and the reaction is observed. In addition, a blood test can assist a food allergist’s diagnostic process by measuring the levels of specific antibodies in the blood. Allergy testing is necessary as it can help determine the severity of the allergy and therefore guide treatment decisions.
Medication
Let’s say you have a mild egg allergy – in this case you may be able to manage your symptoms with over-the-counter or prescription medications. Antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or loratadine (Claritin), can help reduce symptoms such as hives and itching. Corticosteroids could also be used to reduce swelling and inflammation. However, we recommend that patients speak with their Atlanta area food allergist before taking any medications. To maximize treatment results, you need a food allergy doctor to develop a personalized plan for you or your child.
Epinephrine
If you have a severe egg allergy you may be at risk of a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can cause difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure and other serious symptoms. After a consultation with a food allergist, an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen®) will likely be prescribed for those patients at risk for anaphylaxis. This epinephrine auto-injector is to be carried at all times. During an anaphylactic shock episode, you should use the auto-injector immediately and seek emergency medical care.
Oral Immunotherapy Treatment
Oral immunotherapy, also known as allergy desensitization, is a treatment option offered by a limited number of food allergists. The goal of oral immunotherapy is to increase your tolerance to eggs and reduce the risk of a severe allergic reaction. During treatment, you will be given small, gradually increasing doses of egg protein under the supervision of an allergist. Clinical trials published by the National Library of Medicine show that oral immunotherapy treatment can desensitize a majority of patients to eggs and other allergens.
Trusted Food Allergist Serving the Atlanta Area
Chacko Food Allergy Treatment Center provides expert diagnosis and treatment for adults and children who are experiencing food allergies. For friendly, effective allergy treatment, visit one of our centers in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
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