A cow milk allergy is considered as one of the most common allergies in kids. Symptoms usually occur a few minutes or a few hours after drinking milk.
- Even though cow milk is the main culprit of the allergic reaction, patients may also have a reaction to goat’s milk, buffalo milk, sheep’s milk, etc.
- In some cases, those who have cow’s milk allergy will not be able to tolerate soy milk as well
- Reactions to a cow’s milk allergy can range from mild to severe
- Most children are going to outgrow this allergy by the age of 3
- It is important for the child’s healthcare provider to differentiate a true milk allergy from lactose or milk intolerance
Symptoms
Here are some of the common symptoms associated with an allergy to cow’s milk.
- Rashes
- Hives
- Generalized itching
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Gastric Cramps, Diarrhea, and other Gastric Symptoms
- Colic
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Diarrhea
Cow Milk Allergy Symptoms
It is rare for a cow’s milk allergy to lead to anaphylactic shock, or a serious allergic reaction in need of immediate medical attention. Recognizing the signs of such a reaction is important for immediate medical care.
Signs of an anaphylactic reaction include:
- Difficulty breathing – cyanosis and wheezing may occur
- Swollen face, tongue, mouth, throat
- Syncope
- Hypovolemic Shock – Sudden and Severe Drop in Blood Pressure
Cow Milk Allergy Treatment
Avoidance of Cow’s Milk and Cow’s Milk products is the main treatment course for the condition.
- Fluid and electrolyte replacement
- A well balanced, but digestion easy diet
- Topical medication to help with the hives and the rashes
- Antihistamine may also be given to help treat the condition
In cases of a severe reaction patients may be given an epinephrine shot by Emergency Medical Personal or any qualified individual.
Cow Milk Allergy Diet
Putting a child on a milk-free diet is the best way to prevent an allergic reaction from occurring. Some food items to avoid as they can contain milk include:
- Anything with whey or casein
- Anything with an ingredient that starts with the preface ‘lact’ like in lactate or lactose
- Protein powders
- Anything that has hydrosolate
- Cheese flavorings, including artificial
- Butter flavorings, including artificial
When planning a milk-free diet plan, it is important to look at the ingredients list thoroughly as even something ‘milk-free’ can still contain some of its byproducts.