Milk allergies are more than just lactose intolerance. The two terms cannot be used interchangeably because they are two different things. Both milk allergies and lactose intolerance can present the same symptoms, but milk allergies involve the immune system whereas lactose intolerance involved the digestive system, according to kidshealth.org.
Milk allergies can include symptoms such as hives, wheezing and vomiting immediately following the consumption of milk products. The Mayo Clinic also describes the following symptoms: diarrhea, loose stools with blood, cramps, coughing, runny nose, watery eyes, and an itchy rash around the mouth area.
Lactose intolerance is caused by the body’s inability to break down the sugars in milk due to a lack of production of the necessary enzymes.
Milk allergies are usually something that can be outgrown, but lactose intolerance can stick around well into adulthood. It is hard to avoid milk products because some non-dairy products can contain the milk protein casein as well. It is important to read labels and really be aware of what you are consuming.
It is important to seek help if you are experiencing any of these extreme symptoms. Anaphylaxis can be deadly if you don’t seek treatment in a very timely manner. If you are unsure if you have a milk allergy or are lactose intolerant, then you should have your doctor perform some tests, or visit a naturopath.
Just by educating yourself about some of the foods that contain milk products or by-products you can do much to plan your meal choices so as to avoid any foods that might trigger a reaction.