Causes and risk factors
The immune system mistakenly identifies protein in the egg as a threat to the body. To fight it, the immune system triggers cells to release immunoglobulin E [IgE]. When the affected person eats egg, he is allergic to even in tiny amounts; his immune system recognizes it and leads to the release of histamine in the system. Histamine and various other released chemicals produce a number of signs and symptoms, which essentially are the manifestations of a food allergy.
Clinical presentation
Patient present with signs and symptoms ranging from simple rash to gastrointestinal complaints. Clinical presentation includes hives, itching or eczema on skin. There is tingling or itching in the mouth. Swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body is observed. There is wheezing, congestion of the nose, difficulty in breathing. Patient has abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea or vomiting. Patient experiences dizziness, light headedness or fainting. Anaphylaxis reaction is observed. It is a severe form of allergy and it is a medical emergency. Patient presents with constricted airways, swollen throat causing difficulty in breathing, rapid pulse, dizziness and shock.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. A routine blood test is recommended for IgE antibodies. Skin prick test is advised.
Treatment
The best treatment is to avoid eggs completely. Antihistamines are prescribed to combat mild allergic reactions. The elimination diet involves removing eggs from your diet and re-introducing them at a later time to test whether you react to them.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating eggs. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating eggs.
Facts and figures
About 2% children in world are allergic to eggs.
