Lactose intolerance is often mistaken for a milk allergy because the two conditions have similar symptoms. Talk with your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Lactose intolerance is a more common condition than a milk allergy, and it lasts for a lifetime. A milk allergy is a more serious condition that can cause a severe allergic reaction that could lead to death.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a medical condition where the intestines do not create enough of the appropriate enzyme to digest lactose, a complex sugar found in milk. The lack of lactase, the enzyme needed, causes the lining of the intestines to become inflamed and irritated. The sugar cannot be absorbed into the body, causing the digestive system to rid itself of the sugar as fast as possible. This leads to common symptoms, such as diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, stomach pain, bloating and gas, according to the American Academy of Gastroenterology. Symptoms typically appear within 30 minutes of ingesting dairy.
Allergies
A milk allergy is a malfunction of the immune system that causes an immune system reaction. The body doesn't identify the proteins in milk as safe and begins to defend the body with IgE antibodies. These antibodies cause the body to create histamine. Histamine is a naturally occurring chemical in the body that leads to inflammation and irritation in soft tissue. The presence of histamine causes nasal congestion, asthma, skin reactions and gastrointestinal complications, according to Kids Health. A severe allergic reaction, anaphylaxis, can lead to death if not properly treated.
Identification
One of the most identifiable ways to decipher between the two conditions is by observing the symptoms. MayoClinic.com states that a milk allergy will cause symptoms unrelated to the digestive system, while lactose intolerance will exclusively produce gastric reactions. A milk allergy is caused by the immune system, while lactose intolerance affects the digestive system. Lactose intolerance will never cause respiratory complications, skin rashes or sinus complications. Make an appointment with your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.
Warning
A milk allergy can cause anaphylactic shock in some people. Anaphylactic shock is a condition where the entire body experiences an allergic reaction, causing your blood pressure to drop, lightheadedness and an increased heart rate. If you become short of breath, notice swelling in the lips, face or tongue and feel faint, call 911.
