When it comes to lactose, parents often think more about dairy products from cow, goat or sheep's milk being a problem. These products are not a concern to parents of infants with a lactose allergy, as these products are generally not recommended for children younger than 1, suggests the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, lactose is also largely present in breast milk, which can quickly create a problem for children born with a lactose allergy or who develop an allergy during infancy.
How it Works
A lactose allergy in an infant occurs when the body does not recognize lactose sugars in dairy products as food. Instead, the immune system is activated to produce antibodies called immunoglobulin E. These antibodies cause chemicals that are related to an allergic reaction, such as histamine, to be released into the infant's system any time lactose is introduced to the body.
Symptoms
When allergen-related chemicals such as histamine are released, your infant's body will react in a variety of ways depending on how much lactose is introduced and how allergic the infant is to lactose. Symptoms in infants may include external signs such as hives, runny nose, colic and watery eyes, or internal problems such as diarrhea, wheezing and vomiting. Removing lactose from the infant's diet, such as with a lactose-free baby formula, is typically enough to keep symptoms under control and treat the allergy.
Risks
A lactose allergy can present potentially serious complications for infants if you're unaware that the symptoms are associated with an allergy, or if the symptoms are left untreated. For example, the diarrhea and vomiting associated with a lactose allergy can increase dangers of dehydration for your baby, which can lead to organ failure and death if left untreated. Severe lactose allergies can cause anaphylaxis, which narrows the infant's airway and cuts of oxygen to the body.
Allergy vs. Intolerance
A lactose allergy should not be confused with lactose intolerance. In an allergy, the body views lactose as an invader, causing an allergic reaction. However, in lactose intolerance, the body just lacks the enzyme lactase, which is needed to properly break down lactose without negative digestive side effects such as diarrhea, gas or cramping. It's important to note the difference, because medications for lactose intolerance are not effective for a lactose allergy.
