Casein protein is one of several proteins found in cow's milk. While casein is a high quality protein that contains an amino acid composition that is excellent for growth and development, the proteins can elicit an allergic response in sensitive people. This response is often known as milk protein allergy and can be caused by casein or any of the other proteins found in cow's milk.
Background
An allergic reaction to casein occurs when your immune system erroneously recognizes the casein protein as potentially dangerous and forms antibodies known as immunoglobulin E, or IgE. These antibodies recognize casein the next time your body comes into contact with it and starts a cascade of events that results in the release of inflammatory mediators.These inflammatory mediators cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Your physician can test you for an allergy to casein by measuring your blood levels of IgE to milk protein.
Symptoms
An allergy to casein protein may present as symptoms of hives, cough, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting or dizziness within 1 hour after ingesting a food that contains casein. In severe cases, the symptoms can progress to decreased blood pressure and loss of consciousness. The most severe symptom is anaphylactic shock, which is life-threatening. Often a sudden skin rash after ingesting a food that contains casein protein is the first indication of a food allergy.
Casein and Milk Protein Allergy
Casein, along with whey, is one of the most common proteins that cause an allergic reaction. While you may be allergic to either type of protein, you will not be able to determine exactly which protein is the culprit. In milk, casein is typically found in the curd, or the solid part that curdles. Casein may also be found in canned tuna fish, meat products and processed foods. If you have an allergy to casein, you'll need to read food labels carefully to ensure that casein is not an ingredient even in non-dairy products.
Considerations
The primary treatment for a casein protein allergy is avoidance of all foods that contain casein. In the event of accidental exposure, your physician will provide an action plan and prescriptions for medications to take to reverse allergy symptoms. For mild symptoms such as itching or a localized rash, your physician may recommend that you use an antihistamine such as diphenhydramine, or benadryl. For a more severe reaction that involves breathing difficulties, vomiting or dizziness, you will need to use injectable epinephrine. Your physician can instruct you on how and when to use this medication.
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