Cow Milk Allergy Symptoms and Its Allergic Reaction Treatments

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.

When an allergic reaction occurs, children may be given supportive care including:

  • 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.

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