If an evening spent with a pint of ice cream leaves you doubled over in pain, you may have a dairy allergy, particularly if dairy sensitivity runs in your family. While dairy allergies can develop in people of any age, the Cleveland Clinic reports that they are more prevalent in infants and children. Many children outgrow their dairy allergies by adolescence. An allergist can help confirm a dairy allergy and lay out a treatment plan.
Misconceptions
Many people confuse dairy allergies and lactose intolerance. A dairy allergy is a potentially life-threatening immune system reaction, whereas lactose intolerance is the simple inability to digest lactose, the sugar in milk. People who suffer lactose intolerance may take a digestive enzyme called lactase before consuming dairy products and not suffer any ill consequences. Lactose intolerance is much more common in adults than in children.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dairy allergy may be relatively mild--itching, eczema or hives--or they may be more severe, such as a swollen throat, shortness of breath or abdominal pain with vomiting or diarrhea. At its most severe, an allergic reaction results in anaphylaxis, a potentially deadly condition in which the body shuts down.
Tests
Several tests can confirm a dairy allergy. Skin tests involve pricking the skin with a small amount of the allergen to see whether a reaction occurs. In a challenge test, the patient consumes the allergen. A blood test is the most invasive and requires that a significant amount of blood be taken and analyzed in the lab. An allergist should perform all tests.
Treatment/Solution
The best strategy for dealing with a dairy allergy is to avoid dairy products altogether. Alternatives derived from rice, nut, hemp and soy are available, though the Cleveland Clinic points out that many people who suffer dairy allergies also are allergic to soy. An allergist may prescribe injections of epinephrine to keep on hand in case of accidental exposure. Oral antihistamines also help fight allergic reactions.
Warning
While dairy products are high in calcium, there is some debate over how much of that calcium is actually absorbed by the bones. The calcium in leafy greens is much easier for the body to digest and absorb, according to the American Heart Association. While that's good news for those who suffer dairy allergies, they must be vigilant about replacing dairy products with abundant greens. Plant-based calcium supplements help fill gaps in the diet. A calcium deficiency may lead to muscle aches, insomnia and, in severe cases, osteoporosis.
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