Allergies are triggered once the immune system erroneously recognizes a harmless material as a threat to the body. The body responds by releasing chemicals to fight off the perceived threat, resulting to the manifestation of the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
There are various allergens that include airborne particles to food ingredients. Many are allergic to pollen, pet dander and to certain foods such as seafood and peanuts. Among the different types of food allergies, eggs are also considered one of the common triggers, both the white and yolk. Egg white allergy is considered as a common allergy which is triggered once the white part is eaten but reactions can also occur if the yolk is eaten.
Symptoms of egg white allergy
It is important that you are familiar with the symptoms of egg white allergy. If you suspect that an individual is experiencing any of the symptoms after consuming egg or foods that contain eggs, it indicates that he/she has egg white allergy.
Hives
Hives can be caused by the inflammation of the skin in which red-colored, itchy welts are produced. This is considered as one of the most common reactions if egg white is eaten. Hives are triggered once the immune system releases chemicals into the bloodstream the moment the allergen is detected. Histamine is responsible for initiating an allergic reaction.
The skin reactions can be alleviated by providing over-the-counter antihistamines. The doctor can also prescribe prescription medications for severe skin reactions.
Allergic asthma
This condition occurs once the bronchial airways become highly sensitive to the presence of the allergen. Allergic asthma is commonly linked with allergens that are inhaled such as animal dander and pollen, but can also occur if an allergen is ingested such as eggs.
The airway will start to constrict, resulting to inflammation and an increase in the production of mucus. This will eventually lead to shortness of breath, coughing and chest tightness. Prescription medications and bronchial inhalers are usually given to ease the severity of the condition and the asthma attacks that are triggered by the allergy.
Anaphylaxis
A severe allergic reaction is called an anaphylaxis which is a life-threatening condition. Once the immune system produces chemicals to fight off the allergen that is perceived as a threat, it releases these chemicals too quickly, thus sending the body into a state of shock. Understandably, this will lead to the drop in the blood pressure rapidly and cause the constriction of the airways which makes it difficult to breathe. If anaphylaxis is not treated, it can lead to loss of consciousness or even death and must be countered with an injection of epinephrine right away. It is important to seek emergency care once the first signs of anaphylaxis are observed in order to prevent them from worsening.