About the allergen egg white
Egg white is the clear, viscous substance found in eggs, and makes up the largest part of the egg's weight. Egg whites consist mainly of water and protein, but also contain small amounts of other nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals.
The protein in egg whites is of high quality and mainly consists of albumin, which is one of the most common proteins found in nature.
Egg white is one of the most common allergens and can cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to the protein in egg white. It is common for people who are allergic to egg whites to also be allergic to egg yolk.
The proteins in egg whites
Albumin is one of the main proteins found in egg whites and can cause allergic reactions in people who are allergic to egg whites. Other proteins found in egg whites, such as ovomucoid and ovo transferrin, can also cause allergic reactions in some people.
When a person with an egg allergy is exposed to egg whites, the body's immune system can react by producing antibodies against the egg white protein, which can lead to allergic symptoms and reactions. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and life-threatening, so it is important that people with an egg allergy are aware of the potential risks and take the necessary precautions to avoid egg whites and other egg-related ingredients.
Symptoms of egg allergy
An allergic reaction to egg white can cause a variety of symptoms such as:
- skin rash
- itching
- swelling of the face or throat
- hives
- magont
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- asthma
- anaphylaxis.
Anaphylaxis is the most serious type of allergic reaction and can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
Egg whites in foods
Egg whites can also be found in a variety of foods and products, including baked goods, ice cream, mayonnaise, certain types of candy and sauces. It is important for people with an egg allergy to be aware of this and carefully read the ingredients list on food labels to avoid egg whites and other egg-related ingredients.
If you suspect that you are allergic to egg whites, you can do an allergy test for egg whites, you should also consult a doctor for a diagnosis and to get advice on how to manage your allergy. There are treatments and strategies to manage egg allergy and reduce the risk of serious reactions, including avoiding the allergen and carrying an emergency medication for anaphylaxis.
How can I find out if I am allergic to egg whites?
You can test yourself for egg allergy through a blood test that measures the levels of specific IgE antibodies that the body produces as a reaction to egg whites. The results of the test may indicate whether you have high levels of IgE antibodies to egg whites, which may indicate that you are having an allergic reaction to egg whites.
It is important to note that a blood test to investigate symptoms suggestive of an egg allergy is only part of a complete allergy investigation and that additional tests and evaluations with your doctor may be necessary to determine an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
