How To Tell If You Are Allergic To Casein Or Milk Protien

Casein is a protein found primarily in cow's milk. About 2.5 percent of kids under the age of three have a milk allergy; however, most of these children will outgrow the allergy, reports the website of the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network. Allergy symptoms can be mild or severe, and any sign of allergy should be reported to a doctor immediately. If you're allergic to milk proteins, it's important to read food labels carefully, as milk proteins may be in foods you never expected, such as being used as a binder for some meat products.

Watch Carefully for Signs of Milk Protein or Casein Allergies

Step 1

Watch out for symptoms immediately after drinking milk or consuming milk products. Signs of a milk allergy that may show up right away include hives and vomiting. According to the Kids Health website, other immediate signs of a milk allergy are wheezing and coughing.

Step 2

Pay attention to any signs of illness that occur in the hours following consumption of milk proteins. These signs of a milk protein or casein allergy include diarrhea, stomach cramps, an itchy rash around the mouth and a runny nose. In babies, colic may be a symptom of an allergy to cow's milk.

Step 3

Proceed immediately to the nearest emergency room if any signs of anaphylaxis occur. This condition is rare with a milk allergy, but can be fatal if untreated. During anaphylaxis, which is an extreme allergic reaction, the airways narrow, making breathing difficult. Signs that this is happening include a swollen throat, flushed face, and severe drop in blood pressure, explains the Mayo Clinic.

Tips and Warnings

People who suspect they have a milk allergy can ask their doctor of allergist for a simple screening test for milk allergy.
If you are eating out and have a milk protein allergy, make sure to tell your server that you have a milk allergy and ask for no dairy in the preparation of your food. For example, some dining establishments put butter on top of steak to enhance the flavor. Read food labels. Milk proteins can show up in some unexpected places, such as some canned tuna.