WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF A MILK ALLERGY

Although milk allergy occurs most often in infants and children, it can appear at any age and can be caused by foods that had been previously eaten without any problems. Milk allergy can develop in both formula-fed and breastfed infants. Breastfed infants can develop milk allergy to cow’s milk protein passed through breast milk, and may not have a reaction until they drink or eat cow’s milk. Many infants who have milk allergy can lose their allergy by 5 years of age.

Milk allergy is not the same thing as lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, a sugar found in many dairy products. Lactose intolerance is rare in infants and young children and is more common in adults. Fortunately, milk is one of the easiest ingredients to substitute in baking and cooking. It can be substituted, in equal amounts, with water or fruit juice. (For example, substitute 1 cup milk with 1 cup water.)

Allergic reactions to foods usually begin within minutes to a few hours after eating the food. The severity of symptoms can vary widely from one person to another. Mildly allergic persons may have itching and a few hives while severely allergic persons may experience severe, life-threatening symptoms such as breathing problems or swelling of the throat. The symptoms of food allergy may include any or several of the following: Itching, hives, Eczema, Tingling or swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, Chest tightness, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, Wheezing, Abdominal pain, Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, Dizziness, Fainting, Anaphylaxis: sudden, severe, potentially fatal, systemic allergic reaction that can involve several areas of the body,

Other things to keep in mind if you have milk allergy: Although soy milk may be a possible alternative to cow's milk, many people with cow’s milk allergy can have soy allergy. Many people allergic to cow’s milk may not tolerate milk from other mammals such as goat or sheep. Some people with cow’s milk allergy may have a reaction after eating beef.

Milk products are an important source of calcium and Vitamin D, so it's important that you eat other foods rich in these nutrients, such as broccoli, spinach, and soy products or supplement appropriately. To ensure that you eat a well-balanced, healthy diet that provides adequate nutrients, talk to a registered dietitian. Talk with your doctor about how to prepare for a reaction. Mild reactions may be treated with oral antihistamines. Your doctor may prescribe injectable epinephrine to carry with you at all times in case you have a severe reaction.


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