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Signs & Symptoms of a Chicken Meat Allergy

An allergy to chicken meat can be accompanied by an allergy to chicken eggs or feathers. In a few rare cases, an allergy to chicken meat can present in a person who has no history of allergies to eggs or feathers. Symptoms vary widely, and can affect a person in a number of ways.

  1. Onset of Chicken Allergy Symtpoms

    • An allergic reaction to chicken meat can occur in as little as a few minutes after the chicken is ingested. In other--usually milder--cases, chicken allergy symptoms can take up to 48 hours to appear.

    External Symptoms of a Chicken Meat Allergy

    • A person with a chicken allergy may experience symptoms of pruritis (itching) and urticaria (hives) on his or her skin. This may occur in one isolated area of the body, or may spread across the entire body. Mild symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter medication (such as Benadryl), while more severe allergic reactions require medical attention.

    Abdominal Symptoms of a Chicken Meat Allergy

    • An allergic reaction to chicken meat may result in gastric symptoms, such as abdominal cramping, diarrhea or vomiting. Pain may be mild to severe.

    Respiratory Symptoms of a Chicken Meat Allergy

    • An allergy to chicken meat may result in symptoms of wheezing, chest tightness, or coughing. Mild symptoms can be treated with over-the-counter medications, but if the symptoms worsen, or the person's airway becomes constricted, immediate medical care is necessary.

    Rare Symptoms of a Chicken Meat Allergy

    • Chicken meat allergies can cause sinus symptoms, such as a stuffy or runny nose. This is rare.

      A very rare symptom of a chicken meat allergy is anaphylaxis, also known as anaphylactic shock. It is imperative that an individual experiencing anaphylactic shock receive immediate medical care. Call 911 and ask for an ambulance.

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