How to Stop a Dairy Allergy Attack

According to the National Peanut Board, food allergies affect about four percent of the United States population. Dairy allergies are common among food allergies and can have life-threatening effects if not handled properly. There are medical and natural ways that you can stop a dairy allergy attack.

Things You'll Need

• Antihistamine
• Epinephrine autoinjector pen

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Instructions

• 1

  Take a powerful antihistamine to stop the body from reacting to the dairy product. One of the most effective and powerful antihistamines on the market is diphenhydramine (Benadryl). Take the highest dose recommended once you realize you're having a reaction to a dairy product. Drink a few glasses of water to maintain hydration and to help your body flush itself of the allergen. Repeat a dose if the symptoms persist after the specified time on the drug package.

• 2

  Induce vomiting if you believe you have ingested a dairy product, especially if you are severely allergic. After vomiting, clean the mouth by brushing the teeth. Drink a hot cup of herbal tea such as peppermint or chamomile to calm and soothe the stomach. Drink plenty of clear liquids to stay hydrated. Once you are sure your airway is not constricting, try to get some sleep to give the body an opportunity to recover itself.

• 3

  If you know that you are severly allergic to dairy products, you should always carry an epinephrine autoinjector pen (a popular brand is called the EpiPen®). Use the pen if you feel that you are experiencing a severe allergic reaction. Remove the pen from its carrying case. Remove the protective casing around the needle. With your writing hand, hold the pen in your hand with the needle end closest to your little finger. Keep your elbow bent at a 90-degree angle with the needle end of the pen pointing toward the ground, and then allow your arm to fall, straightening out your elbow as your hand swings down toward your leg. Let the needle enter the outer part of your upper thigh, stabbing it through your pants, if necessary. Hold the pen against your thigh for 10 seconds to allow the all of the drug to be injected. Remove the pen. Rub the injection spot for 30 seconds and return the pen to its case. Call 911 immediately or go to the nearest hospital emergency room. Repeat the process with another pen if it takes longer than 15 to 20 minutes to reach a medical professional, as the drug will wear off.