The stomach pain that occurs after consuming eggs might be caused by an egg allergy. In case the stomach pain is caused by an egg allergy, it can be accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal congestion, skin rashes or asthma.
An egg allergy is considered as one of the common food allergies. If an individual is diagnosed with egg allergy, he/she should avoid all foods that contain eggs. Even though an individual is allergic to the proteins either the white or yolk of the egg, it is impossible to completely separate the two, thus resulting to an allergic response. A doctor should be consulted so that a proper diagnosis can be given. If you want to learn more about food allergies, read here.
What is egg allergy?
If an individual is diagnosed with egg allergy, the immune system reacts to the proteins in the egg as a threat. The body will attempt to fight the egg proteins by producing specialized IgE antibodies. These antibodies will trigger the generation of histamine in the cells which will instigate the allergy symptoms. An individual with egg allergy will develop symptoms within a few minutes up to a few hours after eating the substance he/she is allergic to.
Symptoms of stomach pain
The stomach pain from an egg allergy is considered as a common symptom. The stomach pain is usually accompanied by other gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting, gas, diarrhea and bloating. An allergic response in the intestines can also lead to a tingling sensation in the throat or mouth. It is best to seek medical care if the stomach pain is severe or the vomiting could not be controlled.
What are the other symptoms?
The other symptoms that can occur due to egg allergy include allergic asthma, hives and allergic rhinitis. Take note that hives is the usual indication of an egg allergy. The hives are the welts that cluster on the skin due to inflammation. These can be very itchy and can trigger secondary infections if the skin is open. The symptoms of asthma such as shortness of breath, wheezing and cough are prevalent with egg allergy. Allergic rhinitis is basically nasal congestion that can be caused by an allergic reaction.
Considerations to bear in mind
The MMR vaccine has been considered safe for those who have egg allergy, but it is recommended to consult a doctor first before it is given. Take note than an egg allergy can lead to anaphylaxis. If the individual experiences lightheadedness, difficulty breathing or swelling of the throat, you have to call for emergency assistance right away. A severe allergic reaction would require a shot of epinephrine such as EpiPen to help counteract the symptoms. Once the individual is given a shot, he/she must be taken to the hospital for further assessment and care.