Milk Allergies And Their Common Symptoms

A milk allergy is one of the most common form of food allergies today. Approximately two to three percent of infants and toddlers are affected by milk allergies once they are exposed to or given cow's milk. Milk contains carbohydrates, proteins, minerals, fats, as well as vitamins but it's the proteins that bring about allergic reactions in many individuals. Casein proteins make up the the curd that forms once milk is left to sour and account for approximately eighty percent. The other twenty percent of protein is contained in the whey which is the watery portion that is left once curd has been removed. An individual may be allergic to the casein or the whey protein or sometimes both.

Allergic reactions to milk usually occur within minutes or even a few hours after digesting it. The severity of the allergy symptoms can be different from one individual to another. People who have a mild allergic reaction may experience itching along with hives. A severe reaction to milk may include difficulty breathing along with possible swelling within in the lips toungue as well as throat. Other symptoms of milk allergies include gastrointestinal, dermatological and respiratory including skin rashes as well as vomiting and diarrhea. Keep in mind that a milk allergy symptom can occur within a few minutes or several hours, to possibly even a few days after digesting.

Milk Intolerance Differs From An Allergy

There is a difference between having an allergy and having an intolerance to milk. An allergy is a reaction of ones immune systems to milk proteins and products, whereas an intolerance is primarily caused by the inability of an individuals body to break down the sugar lactose. Signs and symptoms of milk allergies typically appear early on in infants. Milk intolerance is, however, very rare in young children. Here are some other key differences between the two.

  • Milk allergies affect the digestive and other bodily systems but intolerance affects only the digestive system, resulting in bloating and discomfort.
  • Milk intolerance is not a life threatening condition, but an allergy can be the cause of a life threatening reaction in rare cases.
  • Many people who experience a milk lactose condition can consume small amounts of milk and experience no symptoms at all, but those with allergies cannot do this.

Avoidance of milk proteins and products which includes milk, yogurt, butter, and cheese is currently the only treatment available for milk allegy sufferers. Careful reading of all labels is very important since many of the products on the market today contain a form of milk product. A milk allergy is not something that anybody should take lightly. If someone suspects that they have a milk allergy they should consult with their doctor and or a registered allergist immediately. Individuals who experience an intolerance can be treated effectively by minimally consuming products that contain any milk products or switching to those products available that are labeled as lactose free. Remember your doctor is the best resource for diagnosing and determining the proper treatment for any condition.