How to deal with milk allergy

Can a single glass of milk cause gas, cramps and bloating? Not to everyone but may be to some of us who are allergic to milk. It is the healthiest drink for one’s physical and mental growth, as it is a rich source of calcium, which strengthens the bone structure and teeth but some of us are intolerant to it.

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Some of us don’t even drink milk just because our taste buds do not like it or we feel nauseous or sick but if you are allergic to milk, then even your meal time will not be smoothening for you as most of the eatables are made up of lacto products. Symptoms of milk allergy can be mild or sometimes can be dangerous but what is milk allergy all about?

Milk allergies are commonly found in young children but individuals of every age can also experience it. In milk allergy, a person is not just allergic to milk but also the products made out of milk or its by-products. It is not so common but similar to the other food allergies. The reactions are quite visible within a minute to an hour after the intake of milk or milk products.

What happens in milk allergies?

Allergies in the body are associated with immune system, which fights with the infection in the body but if a person is allergic to a particular food, the body overreacts to the protein present in that food. Every time the person eats that food, the body thinks that the proteins in it are harmful invaders thus, it reacts to that particular food.

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Is milk allergies and lactose intolerance same?

Often people get confused between lactose intolerance and milk allergies but they are not the same. Milk allergy is a problem which involves immune system and lactose intolerance, which causes a problem to the digestive system. In lactose intolerance, body does not produce enough enzymes to break down sugar present in the milk.

What are the symptoms of milk allergies?

Symptoms of milk allergies can vary from person to person. Some are:

• Vomiting
• Hives
• Wheezing
• Loose stools which may contain blood
• Cough and hoarseness
• Diahorrea
• Running nose

“Although milk allergies are not very common but it can be found at any stage and can be dangerous for the infants because avoiding milk for them means loss of nutrients, which is very important for them at the initial age. Milk allergy can cause anaphylaxis and lifetime threat which can narrow the airways and block breathing. So, early diagnosis is very important” says Priyanka, at Nitya medical centre, Ghaziabhad

So, if you are allergic to milk and its by-products and you experience the symptoms given above then, you must consult a doctor or an allergist and seek emergency treatment.

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