Milk Protein Sensitivity Vs. Allergy

Cow’s milk contains more than 20 different proteins that may provoke an immune response on ingestion, with casein being the most well-known allergen. Although they share similar symptoms, milk allergy and milk sensitivity are two distinct conditions with different potential outcomes.

Significance

• According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, milk allergy is among the most common food allergies in children, with 2 to 5 percent of children experiencing milk allergy in the first year of life.

Symptoms of Milk Allergy

• Immediate symptoms of milk allergy may include wheezing, vomiting and hives. Symptoms that take longer to develop, such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping and runny nose, may also occur, according to Mayo Clinic.

Milk Sensitivity Symptoms

• Milk sensitivity symptoms are usually most obvious in the gastrointestinal tract and include diarrhea, flatulence and nausea. Symptoms that may occur elsewhere in the body include allergic rhinitis, fatigue and sore throat.

Complications

• According to a 1999 article in "Acta Oto-laryngologica" by Juntti et al., milk allergy in infancy can lead to increased risk of recurrent otitis media (ear infections) in childhood. Another complication of milk allergy is anaphylactic shock, which is often fatal without medical intervention. Chronic diarrhea caused by milk sensitivity can result in dehydration and unintended weight loss if left untreated.

Warning

• Milk allergy can trigger anaphylaxis, which constitutes a medical emergency. If you experience throat swelling, vomiting or other severe symptoms after ingesting dairy products, seek immediate medical attention. Never attempt to treat milk allergy with antihistamines or other allergy medications because they do not protect against life-threatening reactions.