The Allergy Free Shop exists to provide allergen-free foods and products for those with food allergies and other dietary needs. We also strive to give educational resources to those just beginning to learn about specific food allergens affecting themselves or loved ones. The next allergy in our educational series – Egg Allergy.
Most people who are allergic to eggs are actually reacting to proteins found in the egg white; though the yolk also contains some potential allergens. In fact, a person who reacts only to a protein in the egg white may be able to easily tolerate egg yolks, and vice versa. And there are some individuals who will be allergic to proteins in both the white and yolk.
Egg allergies are one of the most common triggers of any kind for eczema, especially in children. Hives, swelling and other allergic symptoms may accompany the reaction. If a mild allergic reaction occurs, over-the-counter antihistamine medications may help relieve symptoms. Although rare with egg allergy, anaphylaxis requires a shot of epinephrine and emergency medical treatment.
Prognosis
The good news is that the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America estimates that many children will outgrow egg allergy by the age of seven, but as with any food allergy some people remain allergic for a lifetime. Doctors have found that a child’s blood levels of egg (and milk) antibodies – the immune chemicals produced by the body in response to allergens – were a reliable predictor of who will outgrow the disease. (The higher the level of antibodies, the less likely the child will be immune to the allergy any time soon).
Avoiding Egg Products
As with most other food allergies, the key to preventing a reaction is an avoidance diet, since there is not cure as of now. This can be challenging, since eggs are such a common food ingredient. Typical items that always (or frequently) contain egg are mayonnaise, pasta, many baked goods, ice cream, nougat and various types of artificial and natural flavorings. As always, read labels.
Also know that flu vaccines are often made using eggs as an incubator, which egg-allergic individuals may react to. If your child cannot take a vaccine, vaccinating the rest of your family can help protect them from the flu. *Note: Flu treatments, such as Tamiflu, do NOT contain egg products.
Allergy Free Shop offers a wide variety of foods that are Egg Free. Some of our best sellers are Cherrybrook Kitchen Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix, Orgran Apple and Cinnamon Pancake Mix, and Cookies for Me Brownies.
Our goal is to provide you with a wide variety of allergy-free products for you and your family, a place where you can find EVERYTHING that you need in one place. And with ongoing vigilance, you CAN be free from exposure and reactions to egg allergens!
Tags: allergy free, anaphylaxis, big eight, eczema, egg allergy, egg white, egg yolk, egg-free baking, food allergy, ingredients