CHICKEN ALLERGY
WHAT IS A CHICKEN ALLERGY?
A chicken allergy is an adverse immune response after consuming chicken or its byproducts. Many chicken allergies are related to egg allergies. Some people who experience an allergic reaction to eggs will often experience the same symptoms when they eat chicken. This is known as bird-egg syndrome. Those with this syndrome are allergic to a substance found in egg yolk and to chicken serum albumin, also known as alpha-livetin.
There have been a few cases of people who are allergic to chicken but not to eggs. In this case, the cause of the allergy is unknown. Chicken allergies can be minor or very severe and symptoms of a chicken allergy can occur up to several hours later.
CHICKEN ALLERGY SYMPTOMS
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Urticaria (hives), redness, and chicken allergy rash
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Gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and stomach cramps
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Runny or stuffy nose
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Mild fever
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Wheezing and difficulty breathing
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In rare cases, anaphylaxis
If you experience the above symptoms after eating chicken, you should avoid chicken allergy foods and possibly eggs. Since eggs and chicken provide us with a large amount of protein, it’s important to substitute them with other protein products.
CHICKEN ALLERGY FOODS TO AVOID
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Canned soups
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Chicken stock
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Curry
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Eggs
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Egg products
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Frozen of fresh chicken
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Seasonings
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Turkey
If you’re allergic to chicken, avoid products with chicken and eggs until the cause of the allergy is determined by an allergist. If your allergy is due to the bird-egg syndrome, you could be at risk of a severe allergic reaction. Alpha-livetin is found in many goods, so it’s important to get a proper diagnosis. In the meantime, consider these alternatives to chicken and egg protein.
ALTERNATIVES TO CHICKEN AND EGG PROTEIN
CHICKEN ALLERGY DIAGNOSIS
An allergy blood test or elimination test works best to diagnose this allergy. A blood test measures the antibodies in your blood responsible for your allergic reaction to chicken. This method of chicken allergy testing is more convenient and does not require preparation; however, you may have to wait weeks to receive your test results. During this time, refrain from eating chicken.
An allergy elimination test requires you to remove chicken and its byproducts from your diet. Dr. Tamayev may also ask you to eliminate eggs, turkey, and squab (pigeon) since they are in the same chicken allergy food list. An accurate test lasts two to four weeks. If symptoms subside after eliminating the above foods from your diet, there’s a high chance that you are allergic to them.
CHICKEN ALLERGY TREATMENT
Antihistamines work well for treating symptoms related to chicken allergies. An allergy specialist can prescribe cortisone creams to help with hives and inflammation. Dr. Tamayev can also provide an inhaled corticosteroid for breathing problems if necessary. Any gastrointestinal symptoms will resolve on their own.
For more severe allergies, ask Dr. T about epinephrine injection. If you require an EpiPen, you will be given directions on how to administer it. It’s important to teach family members how to administer the injection as well.
CHICKEN ALLERGY FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Is Chicken Allergy Curable?
No, chicken allergy is not curable.
Why Are People Allergic to Chicken?
Most people are allergic to chicken because of a related egg allergy.
Can I Be Allergic to Chicken?
If you’re allergic to eggs, you can be allergic to chicken as well. Contact Dr. Tamayev for a diagnosis.
How is Chicken Allergy Treated?
Antihistamines can treat your symptoms. For more severe allergic reactions to chicken, use an epinephrine auto-injector.
How is Chicken Allergy Diagnosed?
An allergy test can diagnose a chicken allergy.
SUMMARY
While chicken allergies are rare, they can be severe. If you experience a life-threatening chicken allergy reaction after eating chicken, call 911 immediately and then visit Dr. T for an individualized treatment plan. Dr. Tamayev provides many treatment options for an array of allergies. Book an appointment today by using the button below!