How is egg allergy recognised, and can children outgrow it?
Egg allergy may cause rash, swelling or vomiting, and sometimes dangerous breathing symptoms. Diagnosis combines the reaction history with appropriate tests when needed. Many children outgrow it, but no age can be guaranteed and cooked egg cannot automatically be assumed safe.
Details
Assessment rather than broad food restriction
Record the food, symptom timing and treatment, and consult an allergy specialist. A positive test alone does not prove clinical allergy; it must be interpreted with the reaction history. Commercial intolerance panels should not be used to impose a broad elimination diet.
Managing food exposure
Check ingredients each time and consider cross-contact. Some children tolerate egg baked into certain foods, but reintroduction needs an agreed specialist plan, especially after a serious reaction. Discuss follow-up and how tolerance will be reassessed.
An emergency plan
Difficulty breathing, throat swelling or collapse requires emergency help immediately. If an adrenaline injector has been prescribed, use it promptly according to the action plan. Antihistamines are not a substitute for adrenaline in anaphylaxis. Other caregivers should understand the child’s plan.
Related reading: When should I introduce peanut to my baby, and how can I reduce risks?.