If you have a milk protein allergy, your digestive system will be affected -- but not with constipation. Common symptoms of a milk protein allergy include gas, stomach pain, cramping, nausea and diarrhea, according to Kids Health. During an allergic reaction, your body is attempting to rid itself of the milk proteins, which causes diarrhea, not constipation. If you notice that you're constipated every time you consume dairy products, you most likely have milk intolerance, a different condition. Make an appointment with your doctor for a proper diagnosis.
Confusion
Milk proteins allergies, lactose intolerance and milk intolerance are commonly confused conditions. A milk protein allergy is an immune system reaction to the proteins found in milk: casein and whey. Lactose intolerance is a deficiency of lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk. Milk intolerance is an inability of the digestive system to properly digest the proteins found in milk. Milk intolerance is the only condition that can cause constipation, according to DrGreene.com. Each of the conditions will cause digestive complications and need to be assessed by a doctor to distinguish the difference.
Milk Intolerance
Milk intolerance occurs when your body cannot properly digest the proteins found in milk. Because the proteins cannot be digested, they can sit in your digestive tract and prevent you from having a bowel movement. If you become constipated from dairy products, eliminate them from your diet and talk with your doctor. You may need to take a laxative or increase your fiber intake to restore your normal bowel movements. Don't' take any medication without first talking with your doctor.
Milk Allergy Clarification
A milk allergy does not cause constipation, but the opposite. During a milk allergy, your immune system attacks the proteins in the milk that causes inflammation and swelling throughout your body from antibodies, histamine and other chemicals. Increased histamine in the soft tissue of the gastrointestinal tract causes swelling and irritation that leads to diarrhea, bloating and cramping. A milk allergy will cause other symptoms to develop, such as hives, rashes, shortness of breathe, chest tightness and sinus complications, according to MayoClinic.com.
Testing
Your doctor may want to perform allergy tests on you to determine if you have a milk allergy or intolerance. Blood and skin tests are performed to observe how your body reacts to the introduction of milk proteins.
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