Egg allergy is a common food allergy in infants and young children. It occurs when a baby’s immune system mistakenly identifies egg proteins as harmful, triggering an immune response that leads to various allergic symptoms. The allergy is often noticed in infancy when eggs are first introduced. Approximately 1.3% of children under five in the United States are affected, making it the second most common allergy in this age group after cow’s milk allergy.
Immediate Allergic Reactions
Symptoms often appear rapidly, within minutes to a couple of hours, after a baby consumes egg or egg-containing products. Skin reactions are common, presenting as hives (red, raised, itchy patches), redness, or swelling, particularly around the mouth or eyes. Even skin contact with egg can cause a localized rash.
Gastrointestinal symptoms often include vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain. Babies might exhibit fussiness or draw their legs to their chest, indicating stomach discomfort.
Respiratory symptoms can include wheezing (a whistling sound during breathing), coughing, or shortness of breath. Nasal congestion and a runny nose are also possible.
Delayed and Less Obvious Signs
Some egg allergy reactions may not be immediately apparent, appearing hours or even days after exposure. These delayed responses are more challenging to connect directly to an egg allergy.
Skin manifestations can include the worsening of existing eczema (atopic dermatitis) or the development of new, persistent, and itchy patches. Infants with eczema have a higher likelihood of developing an egg allergy, and egg can act as a trigger or exacerbate their skin condition.
Gastrointestinal issues can present as delayed or chronic problems, including persistent diarrhea, constipation, or blood or mucus in the stool. Poor weight gain might also be observed over time, as chronic digestive issues can affect nutrient absorption. These ongoing concerns, when other causes are ruled out, could point to an underlying egg allergy.
Behavioral changes can signal discomfort from a delayed allergic reaction. Increased irritability, fussiness, or difficulty sleeping may stem from chronic digestive discomfort or persistent itching from skin issues. Identifying these less obvious signs requires careful observation, as their delayed onset makes linking them to egg consumption more difficult.
Recognizing Severe Reactions
Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction involving multiple body systems. While less common than mild reactions, it is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. Anaphylaxis can progress quickly and may manifest differently in infants.
Key symptoms of anaphylaxis include a sudden onset of widespread hives or swelling, not just localized to one area. Respiratory distress is a serious sign, indicated by noisy breathing, wheezing, gasping, or difficulty breathing. Changes in circulation can also occur, such as pale or bluish skin, a rapid or weak pulse, or a sudden drop in blood pressure, which might present as extreme lethargy or floppiness in a baby. Infants may also appear unusually sleepy, irritable, or inconsolably cranky.
Anaphylaxis can involve a combination of these symptoms, and any suspicion of a severe reaction warrants immediate action. The rapid progression of symptoms means that time is critical in managing this type of allergic event.
When to Consult a Healthcare Professional
Prompt medical consultation is important for any suspected egg allergy. If a baby exhibits signs of a severe reaction, such as difficulty breathing, sudden widespread hives, or floppiness, emergency medical help should be sought immediately. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is essential.
For less severe but concerning symptoms, parents should consult their pediatrician. These include mild to moderate immediate reactions like hives or vomiting, or persistent, less obvious signs like chronic eczema or ongoing digestive issues.
A healthcare provider can determine if an egg allergy is present and differentiate it from other conditions. Professional diagnosis and management are crucial for an accurate assessment. Doctors can confirm an egg allergy through various tests, including skin prick tests or blood tests. They can then provide a tailored management plan, which may include dietary guidance and advice on how to respond to future exposures. Avoiding self-diagnosis or eliminating foods without medical guidance is important to ensure the baby receives proper nutrition and care.