Egg allergies are one of the most common food allergies that affect young children. However, due to the confusion caused by similarities between egg allergies and egg intolerance, parents will not have a complete understanding of this condition until a child undergoes professional food allergy testing. If you’re an Atlanta parent looking for some clarity about egg sensitivities, here are the main factors you need to know.
What Is an Egg Allergy?
An egg allergy is an immune system reaction that occurs soon after consuming eggs or products with egg ingredients. When someone has an egg allergy, their body mistakenly identifies certain egg proteins as harmful. This process triggers the immune system to release chemicals such as histamine into the body, and this leads to allergic reaction symptoms.
What Is Egg Intolerance?
Egg intolerance is a digestive issue that causes bloating, stomach cramps, nausea and diarrhea. A person with egg intolerance typically has problems digesting egg yolks, egg whites, or foods that contain eggs. In some cases your allergist may use a blood allergy test to identify food sensitivities.
How to Tell the Difference Between an Egg Allergy and Egg Intolerance
While correctly diagnosing an egg allergy requires the help of an allergist, examining the following factors can help determine whether your issue is gastrointestinal or originates with the immune system.
Onset of Symptoms
Allergic reactions to eggs usually occur within minutes of consumption. The symptoms of intolerance may take several hours (or even up to 48 hours) to develop.
Common Responses
Egg allergies can cause a range of symptoms including hives, rashes, respiratory issues and even potential anaphylaxis. Egg intolerance primarily leads to digestive problems such as bloating and diarrhea.
Immune Response
An egg allergy involves the immune system reacting to egg proteins as if they were a threat, releasing chemicals like histamine in response. Egg intolerance does not affect the immune system.
Severity of Reactions
Allergic reactions can range from mild to life-threatening. Intolerance leads to uncomfortable symptoms, but they’re not as severe.
Testing Process
Skin prick tests, blood tests and oral food challenges can help diagnose an egg allergy. In contrast, tests for intolerance are ineffective and may lead to false positives.
How Can I Treat an Egg Allergy?
Oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT) is widely considered to be the best egg allergy treatment. Importantly, OIT desensitizes the immune system to egg proteins, so you can eventually continue eating eggs without the same level of fear of allergic reactions. To ensure your safety, the buildup phase of OIT is performed under strict medical conditions.
Expert Egg Allergy Treatment in the Atlanta Area
If you have suffered any of the common allergy symptoms after eating eggs, visit one of our allergy centers for treatment. We provide first-rate egg allergy care from our offices located in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth and Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment now.
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