Managing Egg Allergy in Infants: When to Pause and When to Continue - Pediatrics

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Managing egg allergy in infants can be a complex and sensitive issue, especially given the potential for severe allergic reactions. Based on the information you've provided, it seems that your baby has a history of egg yolk allergy, which has manifested in symptoms such as hives and vomiting. Given this background, it is crucial to approach the reintroduction of egg into your child's diet with caution.

First and foremost, it is important to recognize that food allergies, particularly in infants and young children, can be unpredictable. The fact that your child experienced hives after consuming a small amount of cooked egg suggests that there is still a sensitivity present. Hives, or urticaria, can be a sign of an allergic reaction, and while they may resolve within a couple of hours, this does not necessarily mean that the allergy is diminishing. In fact, it could indicate that your child’s immune system is still reacting to the allergen.

Given the history of severe reactions, including vomiting and diarrhea, it would be prudent to pause the introduction of egg at this time. Continuing to expose your child to an allergen that has previously caused significant reactions could potentially lead to more severe outcomes, including anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening allergic reaction. The immune system can sometimes become more sensitized with repeated exposure to an allergen, which may increase the severity of future reactions.

The recommendation to wait before reintroducing egg is consistent with guidelines for managing food allergies in children. Typically, if a child has had a significant allergic reaction, it is advisable to wait several months before attempting to reintroduce the allergen in a controlled manner, ideally under the supervision of an allergist or pediatrician. This professional can provide guidance on how to safely conduct food challenges, which are tests to determine if a child has outgrown an allergy.

In your case, since your child is now over a year old, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician or an allergist the possibility of conducting a supervised food challenge. This would involve giving your child a small amount of egg in a controlled setting where medical help is readily available, should a reaction occur. The allergist can also perform tests, such as skin prick tests or blood tests, to assess the current level of sensitivity to egg.

In summary, it is advisable to pause the introduction of egg into your child's diet for now, especially given the recent reactions. Consult with a healthcare professional who specializes in allergies to determine the best course of action moving forward. They can help you create a safe plan for reintroducing egg and monitor your child's progress. Remember, safety is the priority when managing food allergies, and professional guidance is invaluable in navigating this process.