Milk Allergy Overview
Milk allergies, while not as common as some other food allergies, can still cause a range of symptoms and reactions that can be life-threatening. An allergic reaction to milk is caused when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies milk proteins as a threat and produces antibodies to fight them. The most common symptoms of a milk allergy include hives, itching, swelling, sneezing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. A milk allergy can also cause anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially fatal allergic reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, dizziness, and shock.
Treatment and Prevention
The best way to treat a milk allergy is to avoid milk and milk products completely. This means reading labels carefully and avoiding any products that contain milk or milk proteins. For those with mild reactions, some medications, such as antihistamines, may help reduce symptoms. For more severe reactions, an epinephrine injector may be prescribed.
It is also important to be aware of the potential cross-contamination of milk proteins, which can occur when food products are made in facilities that process milk. People with milk allergies should also be aware of the risk of anaphylaxis and be prepared with an epinephrine injector.
Living with a Milk Allergy
Living with a milk allergy can be difficult, but there are resources available to help. Many websites and organizations offer support, advice, and recipes that are safe for those with milk allergies. It is also important to talk to a healthcare provider about any concerns or questions. With the right information and preparation, it is possible to live a healthy life with a milk allergy.
