Milk allergy

Milk allergy is a food allergy where an individual's immune system reacts abnormally to milk and products containing milk. It's one of the most common food allergies in children. Cow's milk is the usual cause, but sheep's, goat's, buffalo's and other mammals' milk can also cause a reaction.

Symptoms

Milk allergy symptoms, which can start within minutes or hours after consuming milk, can range from mild to severe and can include:

• Wheezing
• Vomiting
• Hives
• Digestive problems
• Colic, in babies
• Anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction that can constrict the airways and lower blood pressure

Causes

A milk allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly sees the milk protein as something the body needs to fight off. When the individual consumes milk, the body releases chemicals like histamine, which cause allergy symptoms.

Diagnosis

Milk allergy can be diagnosed by a medical professional through a skin test or a blood test. A food challenge and a trial elimination diet may also be used for diagnosis.

Treatment

The best way to prevent an allergic reaction is to avoid milk and milk products. Medications, such as antihistamines, may reduce the allergic reactions. In severe cases, emergency treatment is necessary.

See also

• Food allergy
• Lactose intolerance
• Anaphylaxis

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