by Arianna Larson

Created on: January 19, 2010

Milk is one of the most common allergic foods for children; about 2% to 3% of children under 3 are allergic to one of the proteins contained in cow’s milk: Casey and Whey; although most of them outgrow it after that age. In addition, children that are allergic to cow’s milk are most likely to be allergic to sheep, goat, buffalo and soy’s milk as well. 

There is a difference between real milk allergy and lactose intolerance. Milk allergy is a reaction that happens when the body’s immune system identifies certain proteins in the milk as harmful, creating antibodies to defend the body against those proteins. Once the antibodies have been created, they will stand watch for the next time that a milk protein enters the body; sending a signal to the immune system requesting the release of specific chemicals.  These chemicals are the ones that cause the symptoms that can be seeing when an allergic reaction is happening.

Lactose intolerance, on the other hands is when the immune system is not involved; and it happens when the digestive system fails to produce enough enzymes to process the lactose (the sugars in the milk). The signs of lactose intolerance are different from those of a milk allergic reaction; being in general digestive problems such as diarrhea, excess gas and/or bloating. Lactose intolerance could be ever-lasting.

The only way to avoid any type of allergic reaction is to avoid the allergen, in this case milk. Is always recommended to breastfeed your baby for at least the first four to six months of age; some research has shown that breastfeeding will prevent milk allergy.  Since breastfeeding is not always possible, and some babies need to be bottle-fed formula, if you notice an allergic reaction then switching to a hypoallergenic formula will be the solution. 

Milk allergy symptoms are different from person to person and they may occur within a few minutes of the consumption to hours or even days later, making it sometimes difficult to detect; however, there are general symptoms to watch for. 

According to the Mayo Clinic, the signs and symptoms of an immediate reaction are:

-wheezing

-hives

-vomiting

While symptoms that take longer in appear are:

-redness or skin rash around the mouth

-watery or itchy eyes

-abdominal cramps

-colic

-diarrhea

-runny nose

Also, although very rare, anaphylaxis; a condition that is characterized by the constriction of the airways that block breathing, will present the following symptoms:

-swollen throat, making hard to breath

-facial flushing

-itching

-shock

If your child is at greater risk of milk allergy, due to family history of allergies, for example; is also very important to be more alert and in the lookout for the above mentioned symptoms; keeping a detailed diary of your baby’s reactions can be of great help as well.

If you believe your child is reacting to the milk, switch the formula and bring him/her to the pediatrician; they can recommend skin or blood tests for a complete diagnostic.

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