Can Eggs Cause Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is a condition that can cause a variety of symptoms, including nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose. It is often caused by an allergy to a specific substance, such as pollen, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and foods. One of the most common food allergies is to eggs.
What Is Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is an allergy to something in the environment that causes the body to produce an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE). When a person is exposed to the allergen, the IgE antibodies bind to mast cells, which release chemicals such as histamine. These chemicals cause the typical symptoms of an allergic reaction, including nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose.
Can Eggs Cause Allergic Rhinitis?
Yes, eggs can cause allergic rhinitis. Egg allergies are most common in young children and tend to be outgrown by age five. People who are allergic to eggs may experience symptoms when consuming eggs or when coming into contact with products that contain eggs. It is important to note that egg allergies may also cause other symptoms such as hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
How Is an Egg Allergy Diagnosed?
An egg allergy can be diagnosed through a skin prick test and/or a blood test. During a skin prick test, a small amount of liquid containing egg proteins is placed on the skin and a small prick is made in the skin. If a person is allergic to eggs, the skin will become red and itchy. A blood test can also be used to measure the level of IgE antibodies in the blood.
How Is an Egg Allergy Treated?
The best way to manage an egg allergy is to avoid eggs and products that contain eggs. People with an egg allergy should also talk to their doctor about an emergency plan in case of an allergic reaction. If an allergic reaction does occur, an antihistamine may be used to help relieve symptoms. In severe cases, an epinephrine auto-injector may be necessary.
