What is Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy?
A cow’s milk protein allergy results from a hypersensitivity of the body’s immune system to the protein in cow’s milk.
The immune system mistakenly sees the cow’s milk protein as being harmful. It tries to protect the body by fighting off the protein. This leads to an allergic reaction which can affect different body parts.
What are the symptoms of a cow’s milk protein allergy?
Symptoms of a cow’s milk protein allergy can occur within minutes, hours or even days after the exposure to the protein. Discuss any symptoms with your baby's doctor so they can be diagnosed and treated correctly.
Common symptoms of cow’s milk protein allergy include:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Blood in the stool
Eczema (dry, scaly patches on the skin)
Swelling of the lips or eye lids
Hives
Runny nose
Chronic cough
Wheezing
Colic (excessive, uncontrolled crying)
Will my baby outgrow a cow’s milk protein allergy?
It is estimated that about half of all babies with cow’s milk protein allergy will outgrow their allergy by 1 year of age. Among those that have not resolved their allergy by 1 year of age, over 80% will outgrow their allergy by 3 years of age.
What is the difference between cow’s milk protein allergy and lactose intolerance?
Lactose intolerance is different from cow’s milk protein allergy because it is not caused by an immune reaction. It occurs in people who lack an enzyme called lactase, which is needed to digest lactose (a sugar in milk). Although complete lactase deficiency is rare in babies, temporary lactose intolerance is more common and is usually the result of a temporary decrease in lactase associated with diarrhea or other gastrointestinal illness. Symptoms of lactose intolerance can include fussiness and gas. Discuss any symptoms and concerns with your baby’s doctor.
How is a cow’s milk protein allergy diagnosed?
If you suspect that your baby is allergic to cow’s milk protein, talk to your baby’s doctor. It may be difficult to diagnose a cow’s milk protein allergy. Your doctor may take a detailed medical history and perform a physical exam. If you are formula feeding, he may have your baby try a hypoallergenic, extensively hydrolyzed formula (such as Nutramigen® A+®) to see if symptoms resolve. He may order different tests (such as blood, stool or skin prick tests). Your baby may also be referred to an allergist. Your baby’s doctor is in the best position to diagnose and treat your baby.
If your baby has a cow's milk protein allergy, talk to your baby's doctor about
Nutramigen® A+®, a hypoallergenic, extensively hydrolyzed formula for the dietary management of babies with allergy symptoms due to cow's milk protein.