Egg Allergy Symptoms

Eggs are one of the most frequent allergy-causing foods for young children, although almost all children stop being allergic to eggs by age 5. Adults can also be allergic to eggs, although rarely. Avoiding foods that contain eggs can be difficult, since eggs commonly appear as food ingredients. Numerous symptoms can alert people to a possible egg allergy.

Time Frame

• Allergic reactions typically happen within a few minutes to a few hours after eating eggs.

Skin Symptoms

• Symptoms can include skin issues such as rashes, hives, and redness and swelling around the mouth.

Respiratory Symptoms

• Other egg allergy symptoms include wheezing, asthma and inflamed nasal passages.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Gastrointestinal symptoms can also occur, including stomach cramps, nausea or vomiting.

Treatment

• All these symptoms typically subside in less than 24 hours, and also can be relieved by an antihistamine.

Warning

• A more severe egg allergy symptom is anaphylaxis, which blocks the airways and can be life-threatening. Anaphylaxis also can be marked by rapid pulse, dizziness, lightheadedness, shock, significant drop in blood pressure, or loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis is an emergency and requires an epinephrine injection.