People often view dairy products as wholesome and healthy. However, in some people, dairy products can result in dairy allergy. Dairy allergy can result in symptoms such as eczema, hives, diarrhea, vomiting etc. If a person has dairy allergy, the only way to manage it is to stay away from dairy products.
How is Dairy Allergy Caused?
Milk contains two kinds of proteins known as casein and whey. When a person consumes a dairy product, the immune system mistakenly identifies one or both of these proteins as harmful and reacts to it. This results in an allergic reaction
Dairy Allergy Symptoms:
The following are the symptoms of dairy allergy:
- Eczema
- Hives
- Wheezing
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Runny nose and teary eyes
- Cough
In certain cases, dairy allergy can result in a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. The symptoms of anaphylaxis are low blood pressure, constriction of airways, dizziness or loss of consciousness. Anaphylaxis requires treatment with epinephrine to prevent further complications
Dairy Allergy Testing:
To know if you have dairy allergy, you can consult an allergist. The allergist may conduct a skin test or blood test or both to know if you have dairy allergy. Knowing if you have dairy allergy is the best way to manage it
Managing Dairy Allergy:
Here are a few ways to manage dairy allergy:
- Strictly avoid milk, milk products, and foods containing milk products
- Read the labels while shopping and look for terms such as whey, casein, lactose, lactate, cream, curd, ghee etc.
- While eating out in restaurants, beware of cross-contamination
- Be careful of processed food such as salad dressings, deli meats, canned tuna, snack food, as they can contain milk derivatives
- While shopping, buy hypo-allergenic or milk free products
Dairy allergy and lactose intolerance are different. Lactose intolerance takes place when the body is unable to unable to breakdown the digestive enzyme lactase present in the dairy products. If you suspect that you have dairy allergy, consult your allergist to know if you have allergy and manage it effectively
