Milk is in unexpected places, such as lunch meats, protein bars and pastries. Abdominal cramping after ingesting milk products could be a sign that you're lactose intolerant or have a milk allergy. Lactose intolerance is more common than a milk allergy, according to MayoClinic.com, and typically causes abdominal cramping within 20 to 30 minutes after consuming it. Abdominal cramping is commonly accompanied with other gastric symptoms that should be discussed with your doctor.
Lactose Consideration
Lactose is a sugar commonly found in cow's milk. Young children are able to process dairy easier because their bodies produce sufficient amounts of lactase, the enzyme used to digest lactose, to properly digest breast milk. As you enter adulthood, your intestines stop producing as much lactase and you may develop symptoms of being intolerant. MayoClinic.com states that only people who develop significant symptoms are considered intolerant.
Milk Allergy
A milk allergy is caused by a hypersensitivity to the proteins found in dairy: whey and casein, according to KidsHealth. Your immune system doesn't recognize one or both of these proteins as safe and begins to defend your body. The immune system creates antibodies that attempt to ward off the proteins. The presence of these antibodies in the blood cause mast cells to produce a chemical, histamine. Histamine in soft tissue leads to inflammation and swelling.
Cramping Relation
Both conditions cause the lining of the small intestines to become inflamed. The inflammation causes swelling and irritation that can lead to abdominal cramping. Abdominal cramping is typically associated with gas, bloating, pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Lactose intolerant cramping can begin within 20 minutes after drinking milk, while cramps from a milk allergy can begin within a few minutes or up to two hours after ingesting milk, according to KidsHealth.
Treatment
Avoid consuming dairy products to prevent stomach cramping from milk. If you are diagnosed with a milk allergy, your doctor may recommend alternatives to dairy to ensure you receive the proper daily amounts of vitamin D and calcium. Lactose intolerance is treated by taking a lactase supplement at the first bite or sip of milk, buying lactose-free dairy products or using milk substitutes, such as soy or rice milk.
Consideration
A severe allergic reaction to milk can lead to anaphylactic shock. Abdominal cramping will become severe, your blood pressure will drop, you will feel lightheaded and dizzy, you can experience shortness of breath and anxiety, according to KidsHealth. Call 911 if these symptoms develop.
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