Infant Milk Allergy, Lactose Intolerance, or Something Else?

Recognizing and distinguishing between infant milk allergy, lactose intolerance, and other potential causes of digestive discomfort in infants can be challenging. Here's how you can better understand these conditions and seek the appropriate medical guidance:

1. Infant Milk Allergy:

- Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, fussiness, frequent crying after feeding, skin rashes, difficulty breathing, or any other signs of an allergic reaction.

- Causes: An immune response to the proteins found in cow's milk or other types of milk (e.g., soy). The body produces antibodies that react to these proteins, causing an allergic reaction.

- Diagnosis: A doctor may conduct various tests, including a skin prick test, blood test, or elimination diet to confirm the allergy.

2. Lactose Intolerance:

- Symptoms: Bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and watery stools that occur after consuming milk or milk-based products.

- Causes: The body doesn't produce enough of the enzyme lactase, which is responsible for breaking down the lactose (a sugar found in milk) into absorbable sugars.

- Diagnosis: A doctor may perform a hydrogen breath test, lactose tolerance test, or stool acidity test to determine lactose intolerance.

3. Other Causes of Discomfort:

- Reflux: Frequent spitting up or vomiting, fussiness, and discomfort after feeding can be signs of gastroesophageal reflux (GERD).

- Colic: Crying for extended periods, especially in the evening, along with gas and fussiness, can indicate colic.

- Constipation: Infrequent bowel movements or hard, dry stools can suggest constipation.

- Infections: Gastrointestinal infections caused by viruses or bacteria can lead to similar symptoms as milk allergy or lactose intolerance.

Seeking Medical Advice:

If your infant is experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional. They can conduct the necessary tests, rule out any underlying medical conditions, and provide the appropriate treatment or dietary modifications to ensure your baby's well-being.

It's important to remember that self-diagnosis can be risky. If you suspect an allergy or intolerance, it's always best to seek professional medical guidance to ensure the safety and proper care of your infant.