As a valuable source of calcium, protein and vitamin D, milk has many health benefits for kids. However, a significant number of young children experience adverse side effects from consuming dairy products, leaving their parents searching for a milk allergy treatment. As milk is an ingredient in many products, avoiding contact is certainly not easy. So in response, Atlanta allergists have several treatment options that can reduce the risk of reactions, and also ensure children get the healthy diet they need.
Best Treatment Options for Children With Milk Allergies
According to a National Library of Medicine study, cow’s milk allergy impacts an estimated 2–3% of U.S. infants. As the most common allergy in children of this age, parents are naturally anxious about the threat of an allergic reaction from milk and dairy products. This means that diagnosing a milk allergy is the first step in addressing the issue.
Milk Allergy Testing
While many people suspect that their child has a food allergy (and even that they themselves might be dealing with food allergy as an adult), most will never receive a professional diagnosis. However, allergy testing enables parents to make smart choices – and to protect their children from unnecessary exposure to allergens.
Along with analysis of symptoms and medical records, allergists use one of the following three milk allergy testing processes.
- Allergy Skin Test – Checking for a red bump after the skin is exposed to the allergen.
- Blood Test – A blood sample is tested to identify antibodies associated with milk allergies.
- Oral Food Challenge – Small amounts of milk protein are consumed under medical supervision.
Taking Dietary Precautions
After analyzing the signs of a milk allergy and conducting tests, your allergist may recommend avoiding certain foods. For example, it may be quite possible to consume milk as used in baked goods, but not to drink milk directly as a beverage.
Milk Allergy Medications
Antihistamines often prove helpful in reducing the symptoms of a milk allergy. Allergists often recommend antihistamines for minor symptoms, but if the child is suffering from a severe allergic reaction, antihistamines are inappropriate.
Epinephrine for Severe Allergic Reactions
Parents may be advised to carry epinephrine auto-injectors in case of a severe, life-threatening reaction. When your child is vomiting, has skin hives and is struggling to breathe, fast action is essential. Administering epinephrine helps to open the airways and prevent the release of histamine.
Milk Allergy Desensitization Treatment
Milk allergy desensitization is one of the best allergy treatment options for children with severe allergies. A board certified allergist/immunologist may recommend oral immunotherapy treatment (OIT) after a comprehensive diagnosis and assessment of the child’s health. OIT requires an ongoing commitment, as treatment lasts over many months. However, successful completion of therapy ensures children can be exposed to milk without experiencing a reaction.
Atlanta Area Milk Allergy Treatments for Children
Chacko Allergy, Asthma and Sinus Center help families dealing with food allergies, hay fever, allergic asthma and other conditions. For help with allergy testing and treatment, visit us in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Canton, Cumming, Druid Hills, Duluth or Johns Creek. Call (678) 668-4688 or request an appointment today.
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