Cow's milk protein allergy, or milk allergy, is one of the most common food allergies in children, according to the MayoClinic.com. Most children outgrow a milk allergy by the age of three but it is possible for it to persist throughout adulthood. Symptoms of a milk allergy are similar to any other food allergy, with a small risk of severe, potentially life-threatening effects.
Function
An allergic reaction is the result of the body attempting to defend itself against what it has determined to be a dangerous organism, such as cow's milk protein. MayoClinic.com explains that the body has identified certain proteins in cow's milk as harmful and sent out immunoglobulin E, or IgE antibodies to fight off and neutralize the allergen. Every time the protein enters the body, the IgE antibodies recognize it as harmful and trigger the production of histamine and other chemicals that lead to the symptoms associated with an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of Allergy
Primary symptoms of a cow's milk allergy include hives, wheezing and vomiting. Hives are a type of rash that appear slightly raised and red on various parts of the body. The rash can be itchy. Wheezing can be moderate to severe, depending on the individual. As the allergic reaction progresses, the individual may develop more symptoms, especially those in the digestive system like diarrhea, blood in the stools, or abdominal cramps. Runny nose and watery eyes may also occur. Children may become fussy following a bottle made with cow's milk-based formula. A rash that is itchy can develop around the mouth with swelling, states KidsHealth.
Causes
Cow's milk contains two proteins, casein and whey. Casein protein is the solid part of milk that can be seen when milk curdles. The whey protein is the liquid aspect of milk. Individuals with a cow's milk allergy can react to one or both of these proteins. Casein and whey proteins are found in various other products, some of which are not labelled as cow's milk foods.
Considerations
Some people have a sensitivity to milk called lactose intolerance. This is different from a milk allergy; the immune system is not involved with lactose intolerance. Instead, the body lacks the enzyme to break down sugars found in the milk. This results in various digestive symptoms including gas, diarrhea and bloating after consuming nearly any product containing dairy. The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse points out that most people with lactose intolerance are able to consume small amounts of lactose without adverse effects. Individual differences in lactose intolerance can be vast; some people have no reaction to large amounts of milk but suffer several symptoms with a piece of cheese. Lactose-free, soy-based and other similar products can be substituted when you identify which items cause your digestive issues.
Potential
An infant may exhibit a milk allergy within the first six to 12 months of life, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The baby may have trouble sleeping or even fail to grow at an acceptable rate due to her inability to absorb and maintain nutrients from cow's-milk-based formulas. A breastfed baby can exhibit a cow's milk allergy after the lactating mother consumes foods that contain whey or casein proteins. During infancy a milk allergy is overcome by switching to a milk-free formula, such as soy, or a breastfeeding mother will eliminate dairy and milk products from her diet. Switching formula should be done only under the advice of a health care professional. As the infant's immune system matures, it may stop perceiving the proteins as allergens, resulting in the child outgrowing the allergy. When this doesn't occur, an adult may suffer from the allergy for life.
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