This article will let you know how allergic sensitivity to dairy develops. What are the symptoms and causes of milk allergy in children?
Milk Allergy or Lactose Intolerance
Milk allergy is different from lactose intolerance. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body is unable to produce lactase, which is involved in the braking down of lactose in the intestines. Milk allergy occurs because of the immune system, which identifies milk proteins as an invading substance that need to be fought against. The body creates antibodies to fight the milk proteins that enter the body. This causes different kinds of symptoms. Young children with lactose intolerance are likely to grow out of it within time when the body learns to create more lactase.
Symptoms of Milk Allergy in Children
- difficulties sleeping
- crying fits
- hives
- excessive wind
- stomach pain
- loose stools
- eczema
The symptoms of milk allergy can be different for different children. This is why it important to take the individual circumstances and symptoms into consideration when treating milk and dairy allergy. Eczema is one of the most common allergy symptoms in babies and children. Therefore, this should be carefully examined by a doctor, in order to know whether it is allergy related.
What Can Dairy be Found from?
Products containing dairy can be found many food products. Some of these are:
- Bakery glazes
- Breath mints
- Salad dressings
- Cereals
- Coffee whiteners
- Ice cream
- Infant formulas
- Nutrition bars
- Processed meats
- Whipped toppings
- Chips
- Sweets
Dairy can be found in so many food products that avoiding them completely is difficult. But for most children, it is enough to avoid large amounts of dairy. If the allergy is so severe that no dairy can be ingested at all, without symptoms occurring, it is recommendable to talk to a doctor, in order to find out how to treat the child.
