Aching With Milk Allergy Symptoms

Those who overly react to milk (specifically cow\'s milk) maybe allergic to one or more proteins in such liquid. This is often caused by curd, a chunky component in milk, which contains 80% of the milk\'s protein. It actually include most caseins. On the other hand, whey or the milk\'s water part, compose the remaining 20%. A person can be sensitive to one or both parts of milk.

Often times the body mistakenly recognize the milk proteins as dangerous foreign bodies. In turn, the immune system fight them with specific antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). The said antibodies then trigger the production of body chemicals including histamine.

Milk allergy is one of the many food allergies. It often occurs instantly within a minute to an hour after consumption of milk and food with milk proteins. Such overreaction can last less than a day. However, it is likely to affect the skin, gastrointestinal tract and the respiratory tract.

The skin usually become red and bumpy rashes or hives will surface. Redness and swelling around the mouth as well as eczema is a common indication. When the gastrointestinal tract is affected, stomach usually cramps and then result to nausea, diarrhea and/or vomiting. Respiratory allergic reactions include runny nose, watery eyes, itchy and sneezing. It can also trigger asthma through wheezing and coughing.

However, some people may have an extreme reaction known as anaphylaxis. It is characterized with the swelling of the mouth, throat and the airways going to the lungs. This can eventually result to breathing difficulties. Also, Such allergy can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure making the person dizzy or shock.

Take note that milk allergy should not be confused with lactose intolerance. Although both have the same symptoms, such as bloating or stomach cramps, they are completely different. Milk allergy is an immune system problem, while lactose intolerance is a digestive system condition. Typically, lactose intolerant people don\'t produce ample enzyme required to digest the sugar in milk.

Consult an allergist if you think you have a milk allergy. In most cases, a skin test will be performed. This involves placing milk protein drops on the forearms, pricking the skin a little and observing if redding and rashes will appear.