Allergy to dairy products. Real photos of allergies to protein and milk in children

Do you sometimes feel bloated, have itchy skin or have diarrhea after eating dairy? You may have experienced an abnormal immune system reaction after consuming milk or other products containing it - this is likely an allergy.

In general, cow's milk is the main product behind this type of allergic reaction, however, you should not neglect other types of milk such as sheep and goat. Don't confuse a milk allergy with lactose intolerance. There are two different medical diagnosis, which behave differently.
Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, which is the predominant sugar found in dairy products. This disorder occurs with episodes of bloating and diarrhea immediately after meals that have included large amounts of milk. Lactose intolerance is rare among infants and young children and is most common in adults.

Symptoms of a milk allergy

The severity of symptoms can vary from individual characteristics person. People who have a mild milk allergy have nothing to fear, but those who have severe allergic reactions may put their lives in danger because they have more severe symptoms: difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, mouth, tongue or face.
Here are other signs of a milk allergy:
- Eczema
- Expressed dark circles under the eyes.
- Vomiting, nausea, dizziness or diarrhea.
- State of irritability.
- Abdominal pain or increased abdominal volume due to gas accumulation in the stomach or intestines.
- Fainting.
- Cramps.
- Sneezing, runny nose, cough.
- Eye irritation.

How can you know if you are dealing with a milk allergy?

Go to your doctor for allergy tests. You will likely need to have stool tests, blood tests, and dermatology tests (a small amount of milk protein is injected under the skin to see if the area is swollen).

What foods should you avoid if you are allergic to milk?

If the test results are positive, the best treatment is to avoid milk and dairy products in general:
- Butter and milk fat
- Cheese, including an assortment of cottage cheese
- Sour cream and cream
- Skim and powdered milk
- Yogurt
- Ice cream
- Pudding

Products that contain milk:

These foods usually contain protein cow's milk. Read labels carefully before purchasing or, if you are eating in a restaurant, for example, ask the waiter or cook not to use milk in the preparation of the dish.

Bakery products: bread, cakes, cookies, cake
- Cereals
- Chewing gum
- Chocolate
- Donuts
- Margarine
- Mashed potatoes
- Meat: canned and processed, including sausages
- Nougat
- Salad seasonings
- Sherbet

Ingredients that contain milk:

If one of these ingredients is on the label, think twice before purchasing.
- Casein
- Cheese
- Ghee
- Protein hydrolysates
- Lactalbumin
- Lactose, lactalbumin, lactoferrin, lactulose
- Whey or whey proteins
Children are allergic to milk up to three years of age

Milk allergies occur in most cases from formula milk and when breastfed for too long. Approximately 2% to 3% of children are affected, and the condition usually resolves over time. Some babies are susceptible to the same reactions and symptoms to soy milk, according to latest research. The allergic reaction occurs within minutes or hours after the time of ingestion of the liquid.

How to live with a milk allergy?

We know that the disease can occur at any stage of life, in childhood or mature age. Treatment differs for each person depending on the severity: either with antihistamines or an injection of epinephrine. But the best way is to avoid the allergen, that is, milk itself and products containing this substance.

1.. Find other sources of minerals and vitamins. Dairy products are an important source of calcium, protein and vitamins D and B12. If you have a milk allergy, then foods like broccoli, spinach and soy are recommended for consumption. Consult a nutritionist because they can help you organize a balanced meal plan.
2. Try milk substitutes. Drink soy milk, eat rice and almonds fortified with calcium and vitamin D. Buy ice cream, chocolate, cheese and yogurt, generally dairy-free foods.
3. Talk to your pediatrician about the best formula for your baby. If he has a milk allergy, the doctor may recommend a hypoallergenic product with a widely hydrolyzed protein or amino acid base.
4. Avoid milk outside the kitchen too. Check the labels of cosmetics, creams and ointments to see if they contain any form of cow's milk. Some medications may contain serum.

A quarter of the world's adult population suffers from allergies to dairy products. The disease develops in the presence of hypersensitivity to milk proteins, due to which the body begins to actively fight them, giving a specific immune response. The causes of such reactions may be immune changes, heredity, insufficient production of an enzyme for processing milk proteins, or sensitization to other allergens. At the same time, the symptoms of milk allergy in adults are quite varied and can manifest themselves very individually, affecting different organs and systems.

The clinical picture of an allergic reaction to milk in adults depends on several factors:

the degree of sensitization of the body to a specific allergen - measures of the sensitivity of the immune system to milk protein;
allergen dose - the amount of milk that leads to the first signs of allergy;
sensitivity of peripheral tissues to biologically active substances released or produced under the influence of an allergen - the strength of the body’s response to signals sent by the immune system;
immunity status – general ability The immune system resists the influence of harmful factors.

In the case of milk allergy, the difficulty in identifying symptoms is that it is impossible to associate certain type milk protein with a specific reaction of the body. In addition, milk is found not only in its pure form, but is also industrially processed into various products and food additives, and therefore can be hidden in many food products.

Also, in addition to food allergies, there are 2 more types of milk allergies with specific symptoms:

occupational, which usually occurs when inhaled milk protein powder and causes the development of bronchial asthma;
contact – when the skin comes into contact with milk, when swelling, itching, redness, and peeling appear locally, which can be easily seen in the photo of a patient with such a pathology.

The immune response to milk proteins, which are perceived by the body as foreign elements, can take place at the level of various systems and manifest itself with the following symptoms:

from the gastrointestinal tract - bloating, flatulence, cramps, pain, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea;
skin problems - the appearance of rashes, itching, swelling, redness of the skin;
from the outside respiratory system– swelling of the nasal mucosa, nasopharynx, rhinitis, increased mucus secretion, sneezing, shortness of breath;
(angioedema) - rapid accumulation of fluid in loose connective tissues, mainly on the face, pharynx and larynx.
vegetative (general) reactions – drop in blood pressure, dizziness, loss of coordination, loss of consciousness, rapid breathing, palpitations..

Important! In severe cases, milk allergy can be accompanied by severe swelling of the larynx, suffocation, and pressure surges, which are signs of anaphylactic shock. IN similar condition urgent resuscitation measures are required.

Since these signs are characteristic of any type of food allergy, it can be quite difficult to establish a connection specifically with the consumption of milk protein. To do this, you need to carefully monitor your health after taking it. certain products, and also take into account the characteristics of the manifestation of symptoms.

Symptoms by group

For better understanding clinical picture, characteristic of milk allergy in adults, its symptoms are conventionally divided in accordance with dysfunctions of certain systems.

Damage to the digestive system

If a milk allergy affects the gastrointestinal tract, it is manifested by abdominal pain, vomiting, and stool disorders.

Abdominal pain

Defeat digestive tract in adults it is usually not very pronounced and most often manifests itself as wave-like pain in the stomach. This is due to an increase in the acidity of gastric juice due to the active production of histamine, during which the mucus covering the stomach is corroded and the gradual destruction of the gastric wall begins. Therefore, adults who have been allergic to milk for a long time often experience heartburn, and also develop stomach ulcers and duodenum.

Vomit

Vomiting as a symptom of an allergic reaction to milk occurs almost immediately after drinking it. The duration and strength of attacks in adults depends on the dose of the allergen - the more milk protein that gets into the stomach, the more pronounced the immune response will be.

With allergic vomiting, first the contents of the stomach and duodenum are removed, and after emptying, bile and mucus begin to come out. The most painful are empty urges, which can only be stopped by intravenous administration of desensitizing agents. Since in adults this defense mechanism If you are not too sensitive, vomiting as a manifestation of milk allergy is extremely rare.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea also occurs quite rarely in adults. It is not very pronounced and lasts up to 2 days. However, even with normal stool, certain processes occur in the intestines that cause increased peristalsis and significant discomfort in the abdomen.
IN in rare cases Severe upset may occur, which is characterized by loose, repeated (6–12 times per day) stools. Its normalization usually occurs 2–3 days after milk protein is removed from the body.

Skin lesions

Skin manifestations of the immune response to milk in adults are expressed by urticaria (rash, itching) and Quincke's edema. These pathologies usually go away on their own, but require constant monitoring of the condition, as they can sharply worsen. These pathologies usually have a pronounced external manifestation and require constant monitoring of the condition, as they can sharply worsen.

Rash

The classic manifestation of hives due to milk allergy is a rash. Most often it appears in the form of blisters on the stomach, back, elbows, and groin. Water bubbles filled with clear or yellowish liquid initially have a diameter of 2–3 cm and are located separately. They then merge, reaching 50–60 cm and covering large areas of the abdomen or back.

The appearance of a rash is caused by the entry of milk antigens into the blood, where they are attacked by antibodies and the complement system. The resulting complex settles on the vascular wall. In this place, a local inflammatory process develops, causing vasodilation, which leads to redness, release of fluid into the intercellular space and its accumulation in blisters.

Itching

Itching is a frequent companion to the rash, occurring almost simultaneously with it. The degree of itching depends on the dynamics of the development of the rash, since these two manifestations are the result of the action of one allergy mediator on the tissue - histamine. How more dose allergen and the higher the body's immune response, the stronger the histamine acts on the nerve endings, the more signals are sent to the brain and the more intense the itching is felt.

Quincke's edema

One of the most severe complications An allergic reaction to milk that can be fatal is Quincke's edema. His acute form can develop immediately after milk protein enters the body. The facial area is predominantly affected, and then the swelling spreads to the underlying tissues, reaching the vocal cords, larynx, and throat. In this case, shortness of breath first appears, and without proper assistance, a complete cessation of the breathing process occurs.

Respiratory damage

In case of milk allergy, the respiratory system is rarely affected. This usually occurs through inhalation of milk protein associated with occupational activities, such as the production of milk powder. Damage to the respiratory system can be manifested by nasal and ear congestion, hoarseness, shortness of breath, cyanosis, cough, and bronchial asthma.

Nasal congestion

Allergic rhinitis and rhinosinusitis with an immune response to milk protein is manifested by nasal congestion. This is explained by the development of inflammatory swelling of the oropharyngeal mucosa upon first contact with the allergen, followed by the spread of inflammation to the nasopharynx and sinuses. Swelling of the mucous membrane of the nasal airways appears, which causes their narrowing.

Nasal congestion during an acute allergic reaction to milk occurs almost immediately after drinking it, and then the above clinical manifestations develop. With a long-term milk allergy, the lymphoid tissue of the tonsils and nasopharyngeal mucosa can grow significantly, which leads to frequent sore throats and the appearance of adenoids.

Cough, hoarseness

The cough reflex appears when the receptors in the larynx are irritated. As a symptom of milk allergy, cough develops with angioedema of the larynx. The respiratory epithelium of its mucous membrane becomes overly irritable, so coughing occurs even with normal breathing. Most often it has a paroxysmal character with long breath.

Dyspnea

With a rapid aggressive allergic process, shortness of breath often develops. She may be:

inspiratory
expiratory
mixed.

Inspiratory dyspnea develops when the vocal cords become swollen or high magnification tonsils, which block the passage of air into the lungs. With this pathology, inhalation becomes significantly more difficult, but exhalation remains normal.

Expiratory shortness of breath is possible when occupational allergies on milk and is caused by an attack of bronchial asthma. In this case, inhalation is performed freely, and exhalation is difficult, with a specific whistle. In this case, the person tries to take a characteristic forced posture that facilitates the process of exhalation - orthopnea, i.e. sits with his legs down, holding his hands on the support.

Mixed dyspnea develops infrequently. It may be related to quite rare syndrome Hainer, in which the immune response to milk consumption causes primary hemosiderosis and pulmonary edema. The second cause may be acute heart failure, against the background of which myocardial infarction develops; blood stagnation appears in the lungs, turning into edema.

In addition, autonomic disorders are possible, which are manifested by strong heartbeat, increased breathing, dizziness, nausea, and loss of consciousness. These symptoms can be not only the body’s immune response to the action of milk protein, but also a person’s emotional reaction to the above negative manifestations allergies and sharp deterioration health status.

Milk allergies in adults are virtually untreatable. The solution to the problem is to exclude from the diet any products containing milk protein. But since the composition of dishes or food products cannot always be determined, it is recommended to carry medications that relieve symptoms of dairy allergy.

B lymphocytes provide another type of immunity. If necessary, they transform into plasma cells, which do not attack the allergen on their own, but produce antibodies of various classes that destroy it independently or with the help of the complement system and T-lymphocytes. This is how humoral or extracellular immunity is achieved.

Stage of biochemical reactions

Bio stage chemical reactions develops when the allergen comes into repeated contact with the human immune system. T-lymphocytes and antibodies actively migrate to the site of contact and begin to destroy the antigen. Along the way, a number of substances are released, which lead to the appearance of classic signs of allergies, such as rash, itching, fever, difficulty breathing, etc. Such substances primarily include histamine, serotonin and bradykinin. These substances, otherwise called inflammatory mediators, are produced and stored in special mast cells and are released under the influence of a command from any immune cell.

When released into the tissue, they dilate the vessels in the affected area, thus slowing down the blood flow and improving the conditions for the deposition of lymphocytes on the vascular wall. Precipitating on the vascular wall, lymphocytes penetrate through it into the site of the allergic reaction and begin to fight the allergen. Slowing blood circulation has another goal - limiting the spread of the allergen through the bloodstream throughout the body. This mechanism is extremely important, since if it is inadequate, anaphylactic reactions develop, which pose a threat to life.

Along with histamine, serotonin and bradykinin, other inflammatory mediators are also included in the allergic process, which indirectly or directly affect the course of the allergic process. These include various interleukins, cytokines, leukotrienes, neurotransmitters, tumor necrosis factor and many other factors. Together they cause a rise in body temperature, itching and pain.

Stage of clinical manifestations

This stage is characterized by a tissue response to the release of biologically active substances. Since milk is one of the most powerful allergens, the range of the body's response will be large - from simple urticaria to anaphylactic shock. Expressiveness clinical manifestations directly depends on the dose of the allergen, the speed of its spread throughout the body, the degree of sensitivity of the immune system to it and the state of the immune system itself. Also, the body’s reaction may differ in the timing of its manifestation. Thus, there are four main types of allergic reactions. The first, second and third types occur as a hypersensitivity reaction immediate type. In this case, the count goes by seconds, minutes, less often by hours. The fourth type of allergic reactions occurs as a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction. With this type allergic reaction develops over hours and even days.

Possible manifestations of a milk allergy are:

allergic rhinitis;
headache;
skin manifestations;
bronchospasm;
anaphylactic shock.

Risk factors that contribute to the development of milk allergy

Allergy to breast milk may develop in a newborn child, and an adult may develop an allergy to the milk of mammals. The mechanism of allergization of the body is almost identical in both cases, but the factors leading to allergies are different. That is why risk factors are conventionally divided into congenital and acquired, and acquired, in turn, into those acquired in the first year of life and after the first year.

Risk factors leading to congenital milk allergy:

hereditary predisposition;
maternal consumption of highly allergenic foods during pregnancy;
excessive consumption of milk during pregnancy;
intense drug therapy during toxicosis;
insufficiency of secretory immunity;
features of the immune response;
changes in the innate balance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines;
increased sensitivity peripheral tissues to allergy mediators;
violation enzymatic activity phagocytes;
congenital disorder processes of decontamination of biologically active substances.

Hereditary predisposition

Some nationalities and ethnic groups have a genetically programmed deficiency of certain enzymes that digest milk proteins. Representatives of such a population are some nomadic tribes of the northern regions of Siberia. Drinking milk causes severe diarrhea and abdominal pain, and also makes the body more sensitive to this product. When milk is consumed again in these people, allergy symptoms are added to the usual symptoms of intolerance, which, as mentioned earlier, can be very diverse.

Mother's consumption of highly allergenic foods during pregnancy

It is clinically proven that children born to mothers who allowed themselves to consume highly allergenic foods during pregnancy also had allergies to certain substances, including milk. These products include cow's milk, eggs, fish, peanuts, soybeans, citrus fruits, strawberries, wild strawberries, black currants, hazelnuts, crustaceans and even wheat. This does not mean that these foods should be completely excluded from the diet, but they should be consumed in extreme moderation, being aware of possible consequences. The reason is that in utero the fetus receives nutrients from the mother's body through the umbilical cord. Those nutrients that circulate in the mother's blood can cause problems in the developing immune system of the fetus. The result of such problems, as a rule, is a violation immune tolerance body to certain substances.

Excessive milk consumption during pregnancy

Milk is a high-calorie and valuable product in terms of protein composition. However, if it is consumed in excess, part of the milk proteins reaches the intestines in a form insufficiently prepared for absorption due to the limited resource of the enzymes that digest it. As a result, part of the large, undigested milk proteins is absorbed unchanged. Since these proteins are unknown to the body, the cells of the mother’s immune system absorb it, and when milk is subsequently ingested, even in normal quantities, it causes allergies in both mother and child due to the close interaction of the immune systems of the two organisms during pregnancy.

Intensive drug therapy during toxicosis of pregnancy

Toxicosis develops as a reaction of the mother’s body to the fetus growing inside her. It develops when there is an imbalance between the factors that support pregnancy and the immune system factors that tend to reject the fetus, such as foreign body. During toxicosis, millions of chemical reactions occur in the mother’s body every second. Many biologically active substances are released into the blood, which, in parallel with their direct effect, significantly change the general condition of the mother herself. In such conditions, all systems of her body and the fetus’s body work for wear and tear.

When this condition is layered with any other disease, such as pneumonia, cystitis or sinusitis, it becomes necessary to take medications such as antibiotics, antipyretics or painkillers. These medications have side effect manifested by the development of instability syndrome cell membranes. The essence of this syndrome is the release of allergy mediators even with the slightest irritation. Since the organisms of mother and fetus are closely related, this syndrome manifests itself in a child and can persist for life. One of its manifestations is an allergic reaction to any substance ( milk, strawberries, chocolate, etc.) or physical factor(), provoking the release of allergy mediators.

Insufficiency of secretory immunity

Many endocrine and exocrine glands of the body secrete a secretion containing substances that neutralize many potential allergens before they come into contact with the mucous membranes of the body. These substances include lysozyme and immunoglobulins of class A. In addition, the mucus itself performs a protective function, since it prevents direct contact of the allergen with the mucous epithelium, while simultaneously increasing the time allotted to lysozyme and immunoglobulin A to destroy the substance that can cause allergization of the body. Some people have a congenital deficiency of protective substances in saliva, tear fluid and secretion of the pineal glands. This leads to the fact that an aggressive substance, which can be milk, freely penetrates into the blood and upon repeated contact with it causes the development of an allergic process.

Features of the immune response

The immune system of a healthy person is distinguished by a clear balance in the quantities of certain elements and well-functioning interaction between them. Under the influence of numerous factors, disturbances in the proper intrauterine development of the immune system can occur. As a result, immune cells may be overactive, and the number of antibodies will exceed normal values, and the relationship between their various classes will be disrupted. The above changes will contribute to an increased allergic background, in which any substance, especially milk, will cause an allergic reaction.

Alteration of the innate balance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines

Cytokines are substances that regulate the speed and intensity of the inflammatory process in the body. Pro-inflammatory cytokines increase the inflammatory process, while anti-inflammatory cytokines, on the contrary, reduce it. Since the allergic process is a specific inflammation, it is also subject to the influence of cytokines. For certain disorders embryonic development There is a shift in the balance towards pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to the fact that the child is born with increased reactivity. In such a situation, milk, being a strong allergen, will provoke sensitization of the body and the development of an allergy to this product in the future.

Increased sensitivity of peripheral tissues to allergy mediators

The main mediators of allergy are histamine, serotonin and bradykinin. When these substances interact with tissues, symptoms characteristic of an inflammatory process develop. In case peripheral tissues have high sensitivity to the above mediators, tissues respond to normal irritation too actively, and normal inflammation develops into an allergic process.

Violation of the enzymatic activity of phagocytes

Phagocytes are cells of the macrophage system, located both in the blood and in other tissues of the body, which perform the function of collecting and destroying various substances that have fulfilled their function, fragments of dead cells, even harmful bacteria. One of the functions of phagocytes is the absorption and destruction of allergy mediators. In the case of slow metabolism of these cells, allergy mediators are more long time are located in tissues and, accordingly, have a more pronounced effect. At the same time, the allergic background of the body increases, and milk, being a strong allergen, most likely sensitizes the immune system and, if it enters the body again, will cause an allergic reaction.

Congenital disorder of the processes of deactivation of biologically active substances

Biologically active substances released in large quantities into the body tissue during a relapse of allergies must be promptly removed and neutralized. These substances include hormones, neurotransmitters, mediators of various phases of the inflammatory process, etc. The neutralization of these substances is carried out by the previously mentioned phagocytes, as well as liver and kidney enzymes. Some substances bind to blood proteins and circulate in it in a bound form until the enzymes that neutralize them are released. If the function of neutralizing systems is insufficient, biologically active substances accumulate and cause an increase in the allergic background.

Risk factors leading to milk allergy in the first year of life:

breakdown hypoallergenic diet during breastfeeding;
late breastfeeding;
early artificial feeding.

Disruption of the hypoallergenic diet during breastfeeding

During pregnancy and especially during lactation, a woman must follow a diet that excludes the most allergenic products nutrition. If such a diet is violated, some elements of prohibited products enter the milk less than 2 hours after consumption. When such milk enters the child’s underdeveloped gastrointestinal tract, highly allergenic products are absorbed unchanged in the intestines. This happens because the enzymes that should process them are either not yet present in the intestines, or are present, but in insufficient concentration. As a result, an increased sensitivity of the child’s immune system to a specific allergen develops. Cow's milk can similarly cause allergies in a child if consumed by the mother, especially if she herself has a low tolerance to milk.

Late breastfeeding

According to the latest obstetrics and gynecology guidelines, the newborn should be attached to the mother's breast no later than 2 hours after birth. This measure is intended to reduce the period during which the newborn's intestines remain empty, or more precisely, without mother's milk. Breast milk and especially colostrum ( thick, whitish, sticky substance secreted from the mammary glands during the first 2 to 3 days of breastfeeding) contain a large amount of antibodies that destroy pathogenic microbes already inhabiting the newborn’s intestines. When this period increases to 5 - 6 hours, 70% of newborns develop dysbiosis, which is a factor contributing to the development of an allergy in a child even to breast milk, despite the fact that it is the most suitable product for his nutrition.

Early artificial feeding

The quality of artificial infant formula has improved significantly today. They contain almost all the components that are found in breast milk and even those with which it could be enriched. However, they have one important drawback - the lack of antibodies. It is antibodies that support the child’s immunity against those infections that the mother’s body has encountered throughout her life. The mother's antibodies, transmitted through milk, protect the child until his own immunity is able to protect the body on its own. In other words, as long as the baby is fed breast milk, he is protected from infections much better than if he were fed the best artificial formulas that exist today. Accordingly, if there is a risk of infection, there is also a risk of developing allergies, since many infections create conditions for the penetration of potential allergens into the bloodstream.

Risk factors leading to acquired milk allergy after the first year of life:

pathology of the gastrointestinal tract;
liver diseases;
helminthic infestation;
unreasonable use of immunostimulants;
aggressive environmental factors;
acquired hypovitaminosis;
long-term use ACE inhibitors.

Pathology of the gastrointestinal tract

As stated earlier, the gastrointestinal tract ( Gastrointestinal tract) is a kind of barrier that prevents the allergen from entering the body in a form in which it could cause harm. The gradual exposure of milk as a potential allergen to first acidic and then alkaline environments, various enzymes and intestinal microflora deprives it of its antigenic properties and the ability to interact with the immune system.

If there is a disease in one of the parts of the digestive system ( gastritis, stomach ulcer, chronic duodenitis, etc.) milk is less thoroughly processed. Absorbed into the blood in the form of a large molecule, it is not perceived by the body as nutrient, but as an aggressive factor that must be destroyed. Upon repeated contact with it, the inflammatory process can begin even before it penetrates into the blood, for example, in the intestinal lumen. In this case, the patient will develop diarrhea and pain throughout the abdomen, and the body temperature will rise. The appearance of a rash will indicate the allergic nature of the disease and, together with the fact of drinking milk, a diagnosis of allergy to this food product will be established.

Liver and gallbladder diseases

The liver is an organ that secretes bile into the intestinal lumen, which is involved in the breakdown of milk fats. The gallbladder has the ability to accumulate and concentrate bile in order to release it at a certain phase of digestion and accelerate the breakdown of fats. When one of these organs becomes ill, their function suffers and milk digestion is incomplete. When undigested milk molecules penetrate into the blood, allergization of the body by this product develops.

Children after the first year of life often develop subacute or chronic pain. The pain is better localized compared to more early age. Pain in the umbilical region indicates acute enteritis of an allergic nature. In this case, the nature of the pain is wave-like, so the child’s behavior will change. Periods of crying will be followed by periods of rest. The mechanism of pain is associated with peristaltic waves of the intestine. The inflamed and swollen intestinal mucosa contracts and stretches in time with peristaltic waves, which provokes the appearance of pain. When lightly pressing on the abdomen, no abnormalities are detected or slight bloating is detected. Chronic course An allergy to milk is dangerous because it has a sluggish character, and the mother will not always be able to guess about the incompatibility of this product with the child’s body and will not exclude it from the diet. This over time can lead to chronic pancreatitis, cholecystitis and cholangitis, as well as intestinal enzyme deficiency with the development of secondary celiac disease.

In adults, symptoms of gastrointestinal tract damage are usually less pronounced than in children and are limited to pain in the stomach. The appearance of pain, in this case, is associated with excessive accumulation of histamine in the blood during the phase of active clinical manifestations of allergies. Histamine is one of the substances that increases the acidity of gastric juice. At increased acidity the mucus covering the stomach is corroded, and hydrochloric acid gradually destroys the gastric wall. This explains the concomitant ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, as well as frequent feeling heartburn in patients with long-term milk allergy. The nature of the pain is wavy. Against the backdrop of an empty stomach, the pain intensifies, and when eating any food, it subsides, and then appears again. This phenomenon is associated with a decrease in the acidity of gastric juice when it is diluted with food.

Dyspnea
This symptom appears only during a rapid and aggressive course of the allergic process and requires emergency medical care and follow-up in the intensive care unit.

There are several types of shortness of breath depending on the duration of the various phases of breathing:

inspiratory;
expiratory;
mixed.

Inspiratory dyspnea develops when an obstruction forms in the way of air entering the lungs. With a milk allergy, this obstacle is often swollen vocal cords and, less often, very enlarged tonsils. With this type of shortness of breath, inhalation is difficult and prolonged, and exhalation is normal.

Expiratory dyspnea develops when an allergic reaction triggers an attack of bronchial asthma, the main manifestation of which is bronchospasm. As a result, air passes freely into the alveoli and comes out only when a certain force is applied. With this type of shortness of breath, inhalation is free and short, and exhalation is long and difficult. At the time of an attack, patients are forced to take a specific position in which their hands rest on a table, chair or windowsill. In this position, the upper shoulder girdle is fixed, and in addition to the diaphragm, the intercostal and scalene muscles are connected to the act of breathing, which additionally contract the chest and expel air outward. Exhalation is accompanied by a specific whistle that can be heard from a distance.

Mixed dyspnea With milk allergy, as with any other allergy, it develops infrequently. In one case, its occurrence is associated with the rare Heiner's syndrome, in which, in response to drinking cow's milk, an allergic reaction develops, manifested by primary hemosiderosis of the lungs and their edema. In another case, the appearance of mixed dyspnea is caused by acute heart failure. Due to the need for the heart to work harder when blood pressure drops against the background of anaphylactic shock, myocardial infarction develops. With the development of myocardial infarction, blood stagnates in the lungs, gradually turning into pulmonary edema. With this type of breathing, the patient strives to take a vertical position. Breathing is frequent and shallow. There is an expression of panic and fear of death on the face.

Cyanosis
Cyanosis is a skin manifestation of shortness of breath and lack of oxygen in the tissues. The color of the skin and mucous membranes changes to blue, gray and extremely in serious condition to lilac-violet. This is due to the fact that hemoglobin ( a protein found in red blood cells and responsible for gas exchange processes), binding carbon dioxide, acquires a dark color compared to the combination of hemoglobin with oxygen, which is scarlet-red. With prolonged oxygen starvation, compounds of hemoglobin and carbon dioxide begin to predominate in the blood, which color the blood dark.

Areas of thin skin and the parts of the body furthest from the body are stained earlier and more intensely. Typically, cyanosis begins with a slight cyanosis of the nasolabial triangle and fingers. With the progression of hypoxia ( lack of oxygen in tissues), blue discoloration extends to the skin of the hands and forearms, and the feet and legs are involved. Blueness of the torso and in particular the chest is a poor prognostic sign.

Cough
This symptom is a reflex response of the body to irritation of the laryngeal receptors. In case of milk allergy, the cough occurs when it spreads angioedema to the larynx. The respiratory epithelium lining the mucous membrane of this organ becomes excessively irritable. As a result, even normal breathing patterns or slight changes in the temperature or humidity of the inhaled air can cause a cough. The cough typical of laryngotracheitis is barking and sharp. It is characterized by a paroxysmal course with a long inhalation - reprise.

Hoarseness of voice
Hoarseness develops for the same reason as a cough, but in this case the swelling extends to the vocal cords. As a result, the ligaments swell, thicken and stop producing sound when air flows pass through them. As the glottis narrows, the voice disappears completely, and air passes into the lungs with a characteristic quiet whistle.

Ear congestion
This symptom is not specific to milk allergy. Rather, it is associated with inflammatory phenomena in the cavity of the oropharynx and nasopharynx. At allergic lesion swelling of these sections develops eustachian tubes- hollow canals connecting the middle ear cavity with the oral cavity. The main task of these channels is to maintain the same pressure in the tympanic cavity and in the atmosphere. This mechanism ensures the safety of the eardrum and maintains hearing function during sudden pressure changes that occur, for example, during a fall and ascent, or during explosions.

Autonomic disorders

Autonomic disorders are manifestations of compensatory mechanisms designed to restore the balance disturbed due to the allergic process. These mechanisms are activated predominantly when life-threatening states, a shining example which is anaphylactic shock. According to statistics, at least half of deaths from anaphylaxis occurred after drinking milk.

If you are allergic to milk, the following vegetative disorders develop:

heartbeat;
rapid breathing;
dizziness, nausea and loss of balance;
loss of consciousness.

Heartbeat
This symptom is the body's response to a sharp decline blood pressure during the development of anaphylactic shock. The patient feels it as a tingling sensation in the chest, feeling like your heart is about to jump out. Palpitations are accompanied by a feeling of discomfort and incomprehensible anxiety. The heart rate increases to maintain blood pressure. Once the value reaches 140 beats per minute, a threshold is reached, after which increasing the heart rate makes no sense, since it is no longer effective. However, with a further drop in pressure, the heart rate continues to increase to 180, 200 and even 250 beats per minute. At this rate, the heart muscle is soon exhausted, and normal rhythm replaced by arrhythmia. In the absence of drug intervention at a given moment, arrhythmia entails a repeated drop in blood pressure to zero values. Blood circulation stops, and the brain, which is the most sensitive organ to hypoxia, dies on average after 6 minutes.

Rapid breathing
Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is also a consequence of a drop in blood pressure. On the one hand, it is due to the fact that the speed of blood flow decreases, the tissues receive insufficient oxygen and report this to the brain. The latter increases the oxygen content in the blood by increasing the frequency of respiratory movements. On the other hand, increased heart rate is associated with the patient’s emotional reaction to a sharp deterioration in condition.

Dizziness, nausea and loss of balance
The above symptoms develop as a result of oxygen starvation and decreased cerebellar function. This part of the brain is responsible for maintaining constant tone skeletal muscles, as well as their coordinated work. If its functioning is disrupted, a swaggering gait occurs, precision of movements is lost, handwriting becomes large and sweeping, and there is a feeling of sharply increased weight. own body. Adoption horizontal position improves blood supply to the cerebellum and temporarily restores the patient’s condition. However, with the further development of anaphylactic shock, the symptoms return and worsen.

Loss of consciousness
Syncope, otherwise known as loss of consciousness, develops when systolic blood pressure is less than 40 - 50 mmHg. Art. It is caused by acute oxygen starvation nervous tissue of the brain. In the absence of oxygen, communication between the cortex and subcortical structures slows down. When the activity of these brain structures is completely disconnected, the patient falls into a coma. The length of time the patient remains in this condition determines how great the chances are complete rehabilitation after he regained consciousness.

Diagnosis of milk allergy

Timely and accurate diagnosis milk allergy is extremely important in light of the complications it can entail. Besides, correct diagnosis assumes correct treatment and maintaining the necessary lifestyle. Ultimately, all of the above measures lead to the maximum reduction in the negative effects of milk allergy and improve the overall quality of life.

Which doctor should I contact if I have problems?

The specialist who is directly involved in the treatment of allergic diseases and in particular the treatment of allergies caused by milk is an allergist. Some symptoms and complications of the allergic process can be treated by other specialists. A dermatologist treats skin manifestations of allergies. A nephrologist treats chronic recurrent glomerulonephritis, which may be initiated by an allergic process. A rheumatologist will be useful if it is necessary to differentiate allergies from one of the rheumatoid diseases, the skin manifestations of which are very similar to allergic ones. A pulmonologist treats bronchial asthma, which often occurs in patients with long-term milk allergies. A general practitioner treats mild to moderate allergies.

At the doctor's appointment

When visiting a doctor, the patient must fully concentrate on his illness and provide the specialist with all the information he needs. Sometimes the doctor has to ask the patient about some nuances that the latter would not like to talk about. Even so, the patient should answer unpleasant questions, since in some cases it is these answers that shed light on the cause of the disease, even if to the patient themselves they seem insignificant and irrelevant.

The most likely questions from your attending physician include:

What manifestations of allergies does the patient complain about?
What causes allergic conditions?
How does the body come into contact with the allergen?
After drinking how much milk do allergy symptoms appear?
How long does it take for an allergic reaction to develop after drinking milk?
How often, on average, does an allergic reaction occur?
Do allergy symptoms go away on their own or do you have to resort to medication?
What medications does the patient use and how effective are they?
At what age did the first signs of allergies appear?
Are there allergies to substances other than milk?
Does the patient have relatives suffering from allergic diseases?
Is it possible that allergic symptoms are caused by another substance and are masked by drinking milk ( allergy to lead present in the paint applied to the cup; allergy to polyethylene milk packaging; allergies to industrial preservatives, etc.)?
What else does the patient eat, what hygiene products does he use at home?
Are there related chronic diseases?
What medications does the patient take daily for concomitant diseases?

Patient examination
It is extremely fortunate if the patient sees an allergist during an allergic reaction. In this case, the doctor has the opportunity to observe everything with his own eyes existing symptoms and immediately conduct some examinations to clarify the allergic nature of the above manifestations. To do this, it is necessary to demonstrate to the doctor the places where the symptoms are most abundant. For example, the rash often appears on the private parts of the body. Despite its complex location, the rash must be shown to a doctor, as it may be a symptom of another disease. For example, a rash on the buttocks and legs is one of the first signs of meningococcal infection, which is much more more dangerous than allergies. However, if there are no signs of allergy at the time of your visit to the doctor, then in no case should you provoke their appearance by deliberately consuming milk. Practice shows that after such a provocation, patients often do not even have time to reach the telephone receiver and call an ambulance, not to mention a visit to the doctor.

The presence of allergy symptoms at the time of examination definitely simplifies the diagnosis, but even in their absence, the doctor can guess the degree of their severity based on indirect residual effects on the skin. In addition, it would be very useful if the patient had with him photographs taken at the time of the relapse of the allergic reaction. It is desirable that the photographs are clear, taken from different angles in good lighting.

Laboratory diagnostics

In addition to obtaining a medical history and examining the patient, a series of laboratory tests and provocative tests are usually performed to make a final diagnosis.

The following laboratory tests and clinical tests used to confirm the diagnosis of milk allergy:

immunogram;
identification of lymphocytes and antibodies sensitized to milk proteins;
prick tests.

General blood analysis
This analysis can be called routine, but it often guides the attending physician towards the expected group of diseases. In case of an allergic disease, the number of leukocytes will be moderately increased ( 12 - 15 * 10 ^9 ), and their largest fraction will be eosinophil cells ( more than 5%). The erythrocyte sedimentation rate will also be moderately increased to 15 - 25 mm/hour. These data are not specific to any allergen. Moreover, they can, with the same degree of probability, indicate the presence of helminths in the body.

General urine analysis
If urine collection is performed correctly ( cleanly washed genitals and collecting an average portion of urine into a sterile container) and good laboratory conditions, this analysis can provide important information about the development of the allergic process. First of all, the protein level will be increased, which indicates a general inflammatory process. The appearance of red blood cells in the urine indicates the failure of the filtration function of the renal nephrons, which develops during inflammatory processes in this body. Sometimes casts containing intact or half-destroyed eosinophils are detected in the urine. Their presence indicates an allergic lesion renal tissue and the development of glomerulonephritis as a complication of milk allergy.

Blood chemistry
Given this laboratory research acute-phase inflammatory proteins will be increased ( C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor, etc.). In addition, an increase in the amount of immune complexes circulating in the blood will indicate the occurrence of an allergic reaction.

Immunogram
The immunogram represents the ratio of different classes of immunoglobulins ( antibodies) circulating in the blood. An allergic reaction is characterized by a predominance of class E immunoglobulins, but sometimes there are allergic reactions that occur without their involvement.

Identification of lymphocytes and antibodies sensitized to milk proteins
This laboratory analysis is one of the most accurate basic tests that directly establishes the connection between milk consumption and the development of an allergic process in an individual. The accuracy of this analysis is close to 90%.

Scarification tests
In addition to laboratory tests, the use of skin prick tests is often practiced in allergology. During the procedure, shallow scratches 0.5 - 1.0 cm long are made on the skin of the forearm or back, onto which one drop of a different allergen is applied. Next to each scratch, a brief designation of the allergen that was applied is written with a pen. In the case of an allergy to milk, various proteins, fats and carbohydrates included in its composition are used separately as allergens. According to the latest data, milk contains about 25 antigens, each of which can provoke an allergic reaction. Through certain time An inflammatory shaft forms around one or more scratches, larger in size than around the other scratches. This means that the body exhibits an allergic reaction to this component of milk.

Treatment of milk allergy

Treating a milk allergy should be taken seriously. First of all, it is necessary to change your lifestyle in such a way as to completely eliminate this allergen from your diet. Periodically, you should undergo courses of preventive treatment aimed at reducing sensitization to milk. Finally, it is extremely important to correctly and timely provide assistance to the patient in the midst of an allergic reaction, since this often determines his further fate.

Drug treatment in the acute period of allergies

Allergy relief medications

Group of drugs	Eliminating symptoms	Mechanism of action	Representatives	Mode of application
Antihistamines	Rash, swelling, itching, shortness of breath, cough, hoarseness,	Stopping the synthesis of histamine and accelerating the processes of its destruction in tissues	*Gel:*	1 - 2 times a day with a thin layer, externally
			Fenistil
			*Pills:*	25 mg 3 - 4 times a day orally
			Suprastin
			Clemastine	1 mg 2 times a day orally
			Loratidine	10 mg 1 time per day orally
			*Syrup:*	10 mg 1 time per day orally
			Loratidine
			*Injections:*	0.1% - 2 ml 1 - 2 times a day intramuscularly
			Clemastine
System corticosteroids	Rash, swelling, itching, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, cough, hoarseness, nasal congestion, ear congestion, abdominal pain		*Injections:*	4 - 8 mg 1 - 2 times a day intramuscularly
			Dexamethasone
Topical corticosteroids	Rash, swelling, itching, shortness of breath	Powerful anti-inflammatory, antiallergic and immunosuppressive effects	*Ointment:*	0.1% thin layer 1 - 2 times a day externally
			Advantan
			*Spray:*	200 - 400 mcg ( 1 - 2 poufs) 2 times a day, inhalation
			Budesonide
Membrane stabilizers mast cells	Swelling, rash, itching, shortness of breath, cough, hoarseness	Increased threshold of excitability of mast cell membranes	*Pills:*	1 mg 2 times a day, orally
			Ketotifen
System adrenomimetics	Dizziness, loss of balance, loss of consciousness	Narrowing blood vessels and increased heart function	*Injections:*	0.1% - 1 - 2 ml intravenously slowly! During resuscitation measures
			Adrenalin
Local adrenomimetics	Nasal congestion	Powerful vasoconstrictor effect, reduction of swelling	*Nasal drops:*	0.1% 2 - 3 drops 4 times a day, intranasally
			Xylometazoline
Bronchodilators	Dyspnea	Constriction of the blood vessels of the bronchi and relaxation of the muscles of their walls	*Spray:*	1 - 2 poufs ( 0.1 - 0.2 mg) no more than once every 4-6 hours, inhalation
			Salbutamol
			*Injections:*	2.4% - 5 ml in 5 - 10 ml saline solution, intravenously slowly!
			Eufillin
Local anesthetics	Cough, itching	Increasing the threshold of excitability of nerve receptors	*Gel:*	5% in a thin layer 1 - 2 times a day, externally; 0.3 g 3 - 4 times a day orally
			*Drops:*
			Benzocaine
Antispasmodics	Vomiting, abdominal pain	Relaxation smooth muscle	*Injections:*	2% 1 - 2 ml 2 - 4 times a day intramuscularly
			Papaverine
			Drotaverine	1% 2 - 4 ml 1 - 3 times a day intramuscularly
Antidiarrheal	Diarrhea	Acceleration of reabsorption of fluid from the intestinal lumen	*Capsules:*	4 - 8 mg per day, orally
			Loperamide
Eubiotics	Diarrhea	Recovery normal microflora for dysbiosis in chronic allergy sufferers	*Capsules:*	1 capsule 2 times a day, orally
			Subtil
Enzyme preparations	Abdominal pain, diarrhea	Replacement of missing intestinal and pancreatic enzymes in chronic allergy sufferers	*Pills:*	1 - 2 tablets 3 times a day, orally
			Festal
			Mezim	1 - 2 tablets 3 times a day, orally
Choleretic	Abdominal pain, diarrhea	Elimination of bile deficiency in chronic allergy sufferers	*Pills:*	1 tablet 2 - 3 times a day, orally
			Holyver

Hyposensitization of the body

Treatment of allergies using the method of desensitization and hyposensitization was introduced at the beginning of the twentieth century and has undergone virtually no significant changes since then. There are two approaches. The first one is practically not used due to high risk for the patient's life and questionable effectiveness. It consists in the fact that a concentrated solution of that same allergen is injected intravenously into the body of a patient with an allergy to milk or a certain component of it. Contrary to expectations, an allergic reaction does not develop due to the fact that the immune system is paralyzed for some time by a large amount of foreign antigen. Flaw this method The problem is that an error associated with incorrect calculation of the allergen dose can lead to the development of anaphylactic shock, from which it is not always possible to recover the patient even with the necessary medications. If successful, the effect, as a rule, is not very long-lasting and the body’s sensitization to milk is restored.

The second approach is more practical and most often used. According to the author, this method is called “hyposesensitization according to Bezredko.” Its principle is to regularly administer intravenously to a patient with a milk allergy a small dose of a solution containing the allergen. The dose of the allergen should be such that, on the one hand, it provokes a weak response of the immune system, and on the other, does not put the patient into anaphylactic shock. As treatment progresses, the dose is gradually increased until the patient is able to consume the pure product. This method is more often used for allergies to substances, contact with which cannot be limited without compromising the patient’s quality of life ( dust, gasoline, etc.). Milk is a product that can be safely excluded from the patient’s diet and replaced with other products with a similar composition. Therefore, this method is rarely used, despite the fact that it demonstrates good results. If you are allergic to one component of milk complete cure occurs in 90% of patients. If you are allergic to two or more components, the effectiveness is reduced to 60%.

Lifestyle

Because milk is not vital necessary product nutrition, it can be easily replaced with other products with similar chemical composition that will not cause allergies. Therefore, the patient is required to follow the only rule - the complete exclusion of milk and dairy products from the diet.

It is important to remember that even after many years of preventive treatment, when it would seem that the allergy is completely cured, contact with milk should not be allowed. The first contact after a long break will not cause a violent allergic reaction due to the fact that over time the titer of antibodies to milk will decrease many times over. However, after a few days, the immune system will produce new antibodies, and upon repeated contact with milk, the allergic reaction will be much more pronounced.

It is also recommended, along with the allergen, to exclude from the diet foods rich in histamine and those that have an increased histamine-releasing effect. Such products include strawberries, citrus fruits, legumes, sauerkraut, nuts and coffee.

Preventing milk allergies

In some cases, milk allergies can be prevented. In this case, we are talking about the behavior of the mother during pregnancy and lactation and its impact on the development of the fetus. In the case when an allergy to milk has already manifested itself, there is nothing left to do but to minimize the body’s contact with this substance.

What do we have to do?

During pregnancy, drink milk no more than 2 times a week, 1 glass per dose;
Eliminate foods containing large amounts of histamine from the diet;
Instead of milk, use fermented milk products;
Eliminate industrially canned products from your diet;
Introduce complementary foods later than expected if the family has relatives with allergic diseases;
Periodically undergo preventive courses of treatment for allergies;
Provide yourself and close relatives with a first aid kit for allergies;
Restore the deficiency of substances present in milk by taking additional vitamins and microelements;
Receive antihelminthic treatment once or twice a year.

What should you avoid?

Late attachment of the newborn to the breast;
Failure of the mother's hypoallergenic diet;
Early artificial feeding;
Stressful situations;
Long lasting intestinal disorders and dysbacteriosis;
Aggressive environmental factors;
Uncontrolled use of immunostimulants.

An allergy to dairy products is a kind of protest of the body aimed at milk casein and protein. There are several types of allergies regarding dairy products, for example, one person cannot tolerate exclusively cow's milk, but has a normal reaction to goat or sheep milk; the other person cannot tolerate anything that has to do with dairy products in general, including butter and ice cream.

Some people believe that a dairy allergy and a lactose negative reaction are the same thing. But this is a mistaken opinion, as in the latter case, the body is not able to digest milk sugar. Lactose intolerance is characterized by completely different symptoms that have nothing to do with allergic reactions, for example, gastrointestinal symptoms, let's say flatulence.

What foods are contraindicated for dairy allergies:

milk: skim, whole, baked, skim, dry, condensed; cream;
sour cream and similar food products;
cheeses (hard, processed, soy, vegetarian and all others), cottage cheese, whey;
yogurt, pudding, custard;
biscuits, including crackers;
breakfast cereals, bread and chocolate;
dishes cooked in oil. Right there: mashed potatoes and sauces;
soups in bags.

In addition, it is necessary to ensure that the products do not contain:

milk: pasteurized, whole or powdered;
milk protein, casein, caseinate, lactic acid, lactose, lactalubumin, albumin;
whey (and dry whey too), whey protein;
butter (in any form, and ghee), oil flavorings;
renin, nugu.

Causes of allergies to dairy products

Allergies to dairy products, like other types of allergies, are usually inherited; more precisely, it is not the allergic reaction itself that is transmitted, but the predisposition to it. Namely: completely different allergens can trigger allergies in children and their parents. The percentage chance that children will inherit allergies from their parents is 50%, increasing to 75% if both parents suffer from allergies.

Basically, an allergy does not immediately reveal its existence, that is, when you first consume a product that is an allergen, the body does not show a certain reaction - resistance, immediately a rash, redness of the skin or its other manifestations. This happens for the reason that an allergy to dairy products, as well as to other components, can manifest itself depending on the sensitivity of the nominal system, that is, a reaction to an allergen is possible at the first contact of the body with an influencing factor or after its repeated influence on organism. An allergic reaction to dairy products can also occur in infancy and in old age.

Symptoms of a dairy allergy

An allergy to dairy products can manifest itself with all sorts of symptoms, and their duration can also vary: several minutes - several hours after exposure to the allergen on the body. The period and type of reaction to the allergen does not depend on age signs, that is, children and adults can suffer from the same symptoms.

So, let's look in more detail at the intervals and types of allergic reactions to food, including dairy products.

anaphylaxis or anaphylactic reaction - the interval of time from the consumption of the product to the allergic reaction occurs when the body reacts - anaphylactic shock. Its symptoms occur both immediately and within an hour after exposure to the allergen. Cases have been recorded where eliminated symptoms return after some time. It should be remembered that initial symptoms progress over time;
asthma. Many residents of our country are familiar with this reaction, since it is also provoked by “modern” ecology, but that is not the point now. Asthma, in this case, is an exacerbation that is caused by an allergy to any food itself. It is defined by the following symptoms: difficulty breathing, including shortness of breath; cough. Unfortunately, such signs are most often characteristic of children, even infants;
Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a disease related to dermatology, the symptoms of which are: skin redness, itching. The appearance of such symptoms is due to the body’s reaction to a food allergen, in our case to a product containing a milk (or milk) component (protein, casein);
urticaria - also from the series skin diseases, which is the most common among allergic reactions. In this case, red blisters appear on the surface of the skin, which have the ability to appear and disappear. In this case, the person experiences unbearable itching on the affected areas of the skin. As for the affected areas of the skin, the location may change and increase, that is, blisters that appear in one place can spread to other areas of the skin. Mostly blisters occur in groups;
allergies can also manifest themselves in reactions associated with the gastrointestinal tract, for example, vomiting, flatulence, abdominal cramps, diarrhea. Some people even experience swelling in the oral cavity.

An allergy to dairy products is not a joke, as serious reactions of the body are possible. This is especially dangerous during pregnancy, since the woman’s immunity during this period is weakened as much as the body tolerates. hormonal changes. In addition, the fetus in the womb of a woman is also under the influence of allergic syndromes. Therefore, you should not wait for the disease to manifest itself in all its “glory”; you should definitely contact an allergist and follow a diet that excludes allergen-containing foods.

Diagnosis of allergies to dairy products

Before moving on to this issue, consider the list of doctors who diagnose food allergies (allergy to dairy products, inclusive), and, accordingly, treat them:

an allergist is a specialist who deals with immune diseases and allergic manifestations;
gastroenterologist - an option for those who have an allergic reaction associated with the gastrointestinal tract, for example, vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, etc.;
dermatologist - analyzes any skin processes, including allergic reactions;
immunologist, sometimes has a more combined specialization: allergist-immunologist. He is engaged, as is clear from the name medical profession, study of the immune system and its reaction to an allergen;
neonatologist - a doctor who treats infants;
otorhinolaryngologist or ENT specialist - popularly referred to as - ear, throat, nose;
pulmonologist - diagnoses and treats the respiratory system. For example, if a person has an allergic reaction - asthma, then this doctor is just what you need.

As we have already discussed above, an allergy to dairy products can manifest itself various symptoms and for various dairy products (only for cow’s milk or for all dishes with dairy components). It is for this reason that the doctor, regardless of the type of specialization, conducts a survey of the patient, namely, asks questions regarding the symptoms and what the patient ate before the allergic process occurred. The quantity is also taken into account consumed products and the time interval between food intake and the resulting allergic symptoms. If the allergic reaction is related to dermatology, then skin tests are performed - an immunoglobulin test, which allows identifying the food allergen. Among other things, this test, another name for which is the RAST test, allows you to determine serious illnesses, eczema and psoriasis inclusive. In addition to skin tests, a blood test is taken to analyze the concentration of immunoglobulin E (IgE). A blood test is taken for any symptoms and allergic reactions to any products.

Treatment of allergies to dairy products

Here we come to the very important aspect solving problems associated with allergic processes. So, an allergy to dairy products, like any other allergy, requires the immediate exclusion of the provoking factor, that is, in our case it is milk and dairy products.

The drugs and type of therapy depend, first of all, on what symptoms are characteristic of the patient. For example:

"Epinefin" is an option for extreme cases such as anaphylaxis. Its properties are that the drug acts as a bronchodilator, dilating the respiratory tubes; there is a reduction blood cells(which increase blood pressure) in a quantitative sense. In case of anaphylactic shock, the patient needs urgent hospitalization. Respiratory therapy is also carried out there, consisting of:

endotracheal intubation, which means - insertion of a special tube into the mouth - nasal passage - respiratory tract;
tracheostomy - the trachea is dissected, where a tube is then inserted. The same process is carried out during conicotomy.

People suffering from allergies who are susceptible to anaphylactic shock should always carry with them a drug prescribed in advance by a doctor - an auto-injector with Epinephrine, which, in the event of this reaction to an allergen, is injected into the thigh independently or with the help of another person.

The allergic process (not as complex as in the above case) related to respiratory properties eliminated with the help of inhaled bronchodilators, which can be:

medications that contain the anticholinergic Ipratropium bromide, for example, Atrovent, Atrovent N, Ipratropium Steri-Neb;
medications consisting of the anticholinergic Tiotropium bromide, for example, Spiriva, Spiriva Respimat;
drugs that contain the adrenergic agonist Salbutamol, for example, “Ventolin”, “Ventolin Nebula”, “Salamol Eco”, “Salbutamol”, “Salgim”, “Saltos”;
products where the main component is the adrenergic agonist Fenoterol, namely: “Berotek”, “Partusisten”;
the adrenergic agonist Formoterol is contained in the following medications: “Oxis Turbuhaler”, “Foradil”, “Atimos”, “Formoterol Easyhaler”;
adrenergic agonist Indacaterol - “Onbrez Breezhaler”, “Onbrez Breezhaler”;
drugs consisting of a combination of:
- adrenomimetic Salbutamol and anticholinergic Ipratropium, for example, “Ipramol Steri-Neb”;
- adrenergic agonist Fenoterol and anticholinergic Ipratropium, for example, “Berodual”;
- adrenergic agonists Formoterol and glucocorticoid Budesonide: Symbicort turbuhaler, Foradil combi;
- adrenergic agonist Salmeterol and glucocorticoid Fluticasone: “Seretide”, “Tevacomb”;
- adrenergic agonist Formoterol and glucocorticoid Beclomethasone: “Foster”.

Skin symptoms can be treated with corticosteroid cream or ointment. The name of these drugs depends on the type of skin reaction, for example, in the case of eczema, the doctor may prescribe Polcortolone, Fluorocort or another drug, in more serious cases - Dermovate, Celestoderm B.

Allergy to dairy products folk remedies cannot be cured, because anaphylactic shock (for example) is only hospitalization; Asthma is a dangerous thing, and resorting to herbal decoctions is extremely dangerous. In case of asthma, but as a preventive measure, you can inhale the vapors of potato broth. To do this, boil potatoes in their jackets (5 - 6 potatoes). The pan along with its contents is placed on a hard surface. The patient takes a position so that his head is directly proportional to the pan. At the same time, his head is covered with a cloth (towel) so as to cover the pan with potatoes itself, so that the steam does not evaporate. Skin reactions treat traditional methods It is also not recommended because the patient does not know the reaction of his skin to this or that type of plant. Most often, in this case, decoctions of yarrow, celandine or string are used for external use.

Preventing dairy allergies

Most best advice on this occasion - absolute absence dairy products if you are truly allergic to dairy products. Eliminating the allergen does not mean complete recovery of the body, but at least in this way the allergic reaction itself can be avoided. It is imperative that before purchasing anything in a store, you should read the labels that list the ingredients. In the very first section of this same article, we examined the components that provoke an allergic reaction. And, no matter how much you want a sandwich with butter or cheese, you need to be able to tame your desires, since the allergy can gain momentum, that is, develop, and its symptoms can become more serious, including anaphylactic shock.

Any of the twenty protein compounds that make up cow's milk can become an allergen, if, of course, the body has a genetically determined allergic predisposition. At the same time, it is not at all necessary that parents suffer from food allergies; they can, for example, suffer from bronchial asthma or hay fever.

An important role in the development of an allergic condition is assigned to the rapid transition from breastfeeding to artificial nutrition, and errors in the diet of a nursing woman. Employees of the Medical University of Vienna believe that the human body is capable of developing an allergic reaction to milk. According to scientists, milk protein is able to activate T-lymphocytes, which stimulate the production of antibodies necessary for the occurrence of allergies. In addition, they discovered that when combined with complexes containing iron, the protein loses its allergenic properties and becomes safe for humans.

The most significant allergens include its four components - casein, beta-lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin and lipoproteins. Moreover, an allergy to casein and beta-lactoglobulin (the most active allergens) can develop not only when consuming cow's milk, but also the milk of other artiodactyl animals due to the content of a similar set of milk protein molecules. In addition, an allergy to casein can be a consequence of the consumption of milk by a pregnant woman - casein enters the fetus's body due to its ability to penetrate the placental barrier. People who are allergic to cow's milk alpha-lactalbumin may be cross-allergic to beef proteins. And lipoproteins (the least active allergens) can cause an allergy to butter.

Signs of allergies in children

Allergy to dairy products is a privilege childhood. Functionally immature digestive system The baby is not ready for the full enzymatic breakdown of milk proteins, so some of them enter the bloodstream unchanged from the intestines. Large protein molecules are regarded by the immune system as foreign, and the body responds to their penetration with an allergic reaction. Symptoms of milk allergy in children primarily indicate food intolerance– vomiting, belching, bloating, and then mucous-foamy diarrhea occurs. A characteristic rash, areas of focal swelling and itchy dermatitis appear on the skin of the cheeks, forearm and buttocks. Frequent sneezing, dry cough, nasal congestion, and increased irritability and weight loss can also be a manifestation of an allergic condition. A combined allergy to milk and eggs is often diagnosed.

As the enzymatic system of the digestive tract develops, allergies in most children disappear without a trace, most often by the age of 2-6 years. But in some cases it continues to manifest itself in adults, although with some clinical features: symptoms of milk allergy may be limited to urticaria, pinpoint rashes, itching and swelling of the mucous membranes.

Features of treatment

In rare cases, both adults and children, a specific general reaction of the body in the form of anaphylaxis may develop. In this case, symptoms of milk allergy appear, as a rule, immediately after eating (pallor of the skin, spastic contraction of the muscles of the larynx, severe swelling of the face and throat, convulsions and involuntary urination) and indicate a life-threatening condition. Therefore, treatment of milk allergy with severe general symptoms should be carried out immediately and with the mandatory participation of medical workers. In other cases, menu correction and rationally structured nutrition are sufficient. The diet for milk allergies is exclusionary in nature, protecting the patient from contact with the allergen.

If the allergen is known, an individual diet is developed that excludes foods that cause food allergies in that particular person. If the type of allergen is not established, a nonspecific light diet is prescribed with a reduced food load and without foods to which an allergic reaction most often develops. This diet involves the gradual and alternate introduction into the diet various products, including milk. If you have an allergy to a particular product, you can accurately determine its direct source. Treatment of milk allergy can be carried out using methods traditional medicine. However, the greatest effect is achieved when basic therapy is combined with diet and traditional recipes.

Answer

Tell me, is this the case when a baby is allergic to milk when breastfeeding? My daughters are a month old and have discovered this scourge. The pediatrician advises switching to a special formula for such children, but I don’t want to. I heard that there is special drugs, which allow the baby to digest milk. Does it also apply to maternal? And who should drink them, mother or child? I really want to natural feeding for the baby.

Alina

Answer

Alina, allergies to dairy products are quite common in last year, including breast milk - this is called lactose deficiency in infants, and yes, it is treated with special enzymes that are given to the baby several times a day and he can safely breastfeed. The doctor will recommend which ones are right for your child. And it’s better not to go to a pediatrician, but to an allergist.

Rita

Answer

But I have always wondered why allergies to milk protein occur and is there a cure for this? If there is an allergy to milk sugar - lactose, then they drink enzymes that allow it to be broken down, but with milk proteins, why is this not the case? Determine which protein you cannot digest, take the tablets and calmly drink milk. It is very useful for the body, especially a growing oneReply

My husband doesn’t drink milk at all, precisely because he developed anaphylaxis a couple of times. Once in childhood, and the second time already in adult life, I tried milk for my daughter, wasn’t it hot... We’ve been through enough. And the allergist says that there is nothing to be done about it, there is no cure, just exclude milk and dairy products from the diet. Although there was hope that in twenty years medicine had come a long way and a cure for milk allergies had been invented

Asya