Yes, egg allergy often goes away, especially in children. While more common in childhood, many children outgrow it.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Prevalence: Egg allergy is more frequently seen in children than in adults.
- Outgrowing the Allergy:
- Approximately half of children with egg allergy develop a tolerance by age 5.
- Up to 70% will outgrow their egg allergy by the age of 16.
- Baked Egg Tolerance: About 70% of children allergic to eggs can tolerate egg protein in extensively heated (baked) products. This suggests that the allergenic proteins in eggs are altered by heat, making them less likely to trigger a reaction.
Therefore, while an egg allergy diagnosis can be concerning, there is a good chance it will resolve over time, particularly by adolescence. It is crucial to work closely with an allergist to monitor the allergy and determine the best course of action, which may include gradually introducing baked egg products under medical supervision.
