A milk allergy is considered one of the most common food allergies in children, according to Kids Health. Most children outgrow a dairy allergy by the age of three, but for some, the allergy can continue in adulthood. A concern for people with a dairy allergy is maintaining the proper amount of calcium in their diet, considered most people acquire their calcium intake from dairy products. People with a dairy allergy are advised by MayoClinic.com to not consume diary products in order to avoid common food allergy symptoms. Talk with a doctor before making any modifications to a diet.
Dairy Allergy
A dairy allergy is a hypersensitivity to the proteins found in cow's milk products, according to MayoClinc.com. The hypersensitivity causes the immune system to fight off the proteins, leading to various chemical reactions in the body. Histamine, a chemical hormone, is produced in soft tissue and causes inflammation and swelling to occur. A dairy allergy is not to be confused with lactose intolerance or diary intolerance, which takes place in the small intestines and does not involve the immune system.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of a diary allergy are skin reactions, respiratory issues and digestive complications. Skin reactions include hives and eczema, leading to inflamed and itchy skin, according to Kids Health. The respiratory system is affected with nasal congestion, asthma-like symptoms and throat irritation. Nasal congestion can lead to sneezing, a runny nose and sinus headaches. Common digestive issues include bloating, vomiting, diarrhea and nausea.
Calcium Consideration
According to the University of Arizona states that consuming the proper amount of calcium daily can help prevent certain diseases. Each adult should consume around 1,000 mg of calcium a day to maintain proper health. The primary source of calcium is from diary products, which people with a milk allergy cannot consume. A patient with a diary allergy should incorporate other foods that are high in calcium, such as dark-green vegetables, orange juice and calcium fortified milk alternatives, such as soy milk.
Treatment
A dairy allergy has no cure but is manageable. Treating a dairy allergy begins with a proper diagnosis confirmed by an allergist. Once diagnosed, the person should avoid consuming dairy products. If consumed, the mild symptoms may be treated with antihistamines and hydrocortisone creams. With a severe allergic reaction, leading to anaphylactic shock, an injection of epinephrine may be required to relieve severe allergy symptoms.
Consideration
Consult with a dietitian before modifying your diet for a health condition. In some cases, a doctor may recommend taking a daily calcium supplement.
