I’m Allergic to Chicken: What to Do

Chicken dishes are undeniably one of the tastiest treats that people enjoy worldwide. They are an ideal addition to a healthy diet and contain good proteins that help build muscle tissue. Although chicken is an all-time favorite for many individuals, some are allergic to it. 

Allergies to chicken are rare, but they can be more than a nuisance or even life-threatening to some people. 

In this article, we’ll highlight the facts surrounding chicken allergies. We’ll discuss its symptoms and complications for better understanding. In addition, we’ll also provide management tips to help you cope during an allergy attack. 

So, if you’re allergic to chicken, this article is perfect for you.

Understanding Chicken Allergies

To better understand chicken allergies, it is essential to learn why it happens. A chicken allergy occurs when your immune system negatively reacts to the normal proteins from chicken. It recognizes the proteins as a threat and begins to attack them profusely. Thus an allergic reaction occurs.

Chicken allergy can affect people regardless of age, ethnicity, and gender. Some individuals have them at a young age, while others occur later in life. Moreover, there are cases where people are allergic to raw chicken rather than cooked. It may sound weird, but it’s a fact. 

Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For

Recognizing chicken allergy symptoms can reduce discomfort and the risks of complications. Chicken allergy reaction is rare, so identifying the signs plays a crucial role. 

Here is a compilation of the symptoms that you should be mindful of. 

• Runny nose 
• Itchy nose
• Itchy skin
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Breathing difficulty
• Watery eyes (itchy and swollen)
• Hives
• Skin irritation, red skin, or an eczema-like rash
• Diarrhea
• Scratchy, sore throat
• Coughing or wheezing
• Excessive sneezing
• Chicken allergy eczema

Some of these symptoms can occur within minutes after consumption or exposure. On the other hand, some signs can take a few hours to take effect. Regardless of the situation, you should never take them lightly. 

Complications of Chicken Allergy

Although the symptoms on the above list range from discomforting to irritating, they could lead to severe cases like anaphylaxis. 

Anaphylaxis could lead to fatality. Most cases are life-threatening, and the best solution is found only in the emergency room. 

• A slurred speech
• Heart palpitations
• Swollen lips
• Swelling of the throat’s air passages 
• Rapid heartbeat
• A sudden drop in blood pressure
• Wheezing
• Trouble breathing
• bluish tinge around the lips, fingertips, or toes
• Loss of consciousness or fainting spells
• Swollen tongue
• Shock 

Whenever you, a family member, or a friend experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, go to the emergency room ASAP. Never dilly-dally in situations such as these. Acting quickly is a vital factor in saving the lives of individuals during an anaphylactic attack. 

Poultry Allergy Risk Factors

Here are the factors that are often associated with developing food allergies.

• Lack of exposure at an early age
• When you have eczema
• Gut bacteria composition (microorganisms living naturally within the intestines)
• Levels of vitamin D
• Overall diet
• Poor hygiene
• People with obesity

Additional Information

Individuals with a chicken allergy could develop allergies to other types of poultry. These foods include the following.

• Turkey
• Partridge
• Shrimp
• Pheasant
• Duck
• Fish
• Goose

In rare cases, these people could also develop allergies to pork and fish meat. 

Chicken Intolerance Symptoms

These symptoms are similar to chicken allergies. Here’s what to look out for.

• Nausea
• Stomach pain or cramps
• Tiredness
• Bloating
• Diarrhea

Chicken Allergy and Egg Allergy

If you have a chicken allergy, it doesn’t mean that you will also have allergies to eggs. The proteins in eggs and chicken are different and react differently to people with allergies. People with a chicken allergy can safely eat eggs, and people with egg allergies can consume chicken safely.   

Management Tips

Follow the steps below if you have chicken allergies.

Avoid Chicken Dishes

Do not eat any dish with chicken as an ingredient. Avoid chicken soups or even processed food like chicken nuggets or chicken hotdogs. Accidental consumption can lead to disastrous results.

Talk to Your Allergist

Allergists can provide you with the best treatment for chicken allergies. They usually start with allergy and skin prick tests and suggest diet recommendations. Not all allergic reactions are the same. So, it’s best to listen to your allergist’s advice.  

Over-The-Counter Medications

Chicken allergy treatment includes Over-The-Counter Medications like antihistamines. They are also highly effective against mild to moderate allergic reactions. Remember that some can induce drowsiness, so take these types before bedtime. On the other hand, you can take those with non-drowse effects during the day.

Alternative Food Ideas

Here’s a compilation of the best alternative foods if you have a chicken allergy or chicken intolerance.

• Cauliflower 
• Tofu 
• Tempeh 
• Jackfruit 
• Seitan (wheat-based product)
• Plant-based chicken products 

Strengthen Your Immune System and Stay Ahead of Allergies

Fighting allergies starts with accurate allergy testing. Brazos Valley Allergy and Asthma Clinics got you covered. We offer precision-based allergy testing to provide you with accurate results. Our allergists specialize in using proven and effective methods with years of experience.

Our board-certified allergist and immunologist in the Brazos Valley, Dr. Jantzi, can provide the treatment you need. He offers efficient treatment methods and cares for patients with allergies, asthma, and immune system illnesses.

Schedule an appointment today to enjoy your eating experience without the risk of allergic reactions. You can reach us by dialing 979-485-9287. Choose a clinic near you by clicking this link.