A dairy allergy is an immune response to proteins found in cow’s milk and sometimes other animal milks. This condition can trigger a wide range of symptoms, from mild rashes to severe reactions. “Milk” specifically refers to the liquid from mammals, while “dairy” encompasses all food products made from milk, such as cheese, yogurt, butter, and cream. If you have a milk allergy, you must avoid all dairy ingredients.
While both milk allergy and lactose intolerance involve reactions to dairy, they are fundamentally different. Milk allergy is an immune response and can cause potentially severe reactions. Lactose intolerance is a digestive issue where your body cannot process the sugar (lactose) in milk, resulting in bloating or discomfort, but not a true allergic response.
Symptoms can appear within minutes or up to a few hours after exposure and may include:
Common foods to avoid include:
Always read ingredient labels carefully and watch for hidden dairy sources. Children and adults alike benefit from prompt testing if the allergy is suspected.
Types of milk allergy tests include:
Managing milk allergy usually centers on strict avoidance and emergency preparedness. However, new therapies are expanding treatment options for food-allergic patients:
Adrenaline is the first-line, life-saving treatment for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). This critical medication works by rapidly reversing the dangerous symptoms of anaphylaxis, including difficulty breathing, severe swelling, and cardiovascular collapse. Adrenaline is available in two forms:
For anaphylaxis, adrenaline is the only effective emergency treatment—antihistamines alone are insufficient. All patients with milk allergy should have an emergency action plan and immediate access to adrenaline.
Antihistamines help control mild allergic reactions by blocking the action of histamine, one of the chemicals released by the immune system during an allergic response. While not a cure, these medications can reduce symptoms like hives or nasal congestion after accidental exposure. Antihistamines have been studied extensively in clinical trials and are a standard part of allergy management plans.
Oral immunotherapy (OIT) gradually introduces small amounts of milk protein, building tolerance over time under close supervision. Our board-certified allergists closely monitor OIT to ensure safety throughout the process. Patients undergoing OIT are carefully evaluated and supported to minimize risk and improve long-term outcomes.
Currently, there is no absolute cure, but treatments like OIT can lead to significant improvements in quality of life and safety.
Tips for managing dairy allergy:
Dairy allergy treatment is appropriate for children and adults diagnosed with a milk allergy through clinical testing or who exhibit consistent allergic reactions after consuming dairy products. Ideal candidates include people with a confirmed IgE-mediated allergy, those seeking long-term allergy management strategies, and individuals looking to reduce the risk of accidental exposure. A thorough evaluation by our team helps determine the most suitable treatment approach based on age, allergy severity, and overall health.
Effective management of dairy allergies can significantly improve quality of life when guided by experienced professionals. Dr. Engler and his team provide personalized care, with referrals for OIT, that supports long-term health, confidence, and peace of mind. Our patients receive the following benefits:
The cost for dairy allergy diagnosis and treatment in the Bay Area varies significantly, depending on the complexity of testing and therapy. Most insurance plans cover diagnostic testing and medications. However, coverage for oral immunotherapy varies. Our team will help you navigate your insurance and financing options.
While more common in children, some adults do develop or retain milk allergies.
Most children outgrow milk allergy, but regular evaluation with an allergist is key to ensure safety.
While a dairy allergy doesn’t directly cause asthma, studies suggest that allergic conditions can affect the lungs and may be linked. It is essential to be aware of respiratory symptoms, especially in children. If symptoms worsen or lead to breathing issues, prompt care at a hospital may be needed. We recommend treating underlying allergies early to reduce overall risk.
Ready to take control of your dairy allergy? Schedule your consultation with our expert team in San Mateo for precise diagnosis and tailored treatment. We are here to answer your questions and guide you every step of your allergy care journey. Our clinic is a top destination for allergy treatments due to our commitment to safety, board certification, and the latest advances in food allergy care. With a focus on compassionate, individualized service and a deep understanding of the San Mateo community, we can help you manage your dairy allergy with confidence and ease.
San Mateo Office
Phone- (650) 343-4597 | Fax-(650) 343-3402
Daly City Office
Phone- (650) 991-0405 | Fax-(650) 343-3402
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First and foremost let me start by saying that these people did one hell of a job figuring out my sinus problems. When I first arrived there, I explained what was going on with me having excessive inflammation in the sinus…after they tested me, I found out that I was being exposed to dust mites which gave me a strong reaction. I followed the doctors guides lines in terms of cleaning my room and ever since, my sinus inflammation went away for good and now I have a healthy sinus. Thank you for everything.
My 10 year old son also has allergies and asthma and the staff makes sure that he feels well taken care of and comfortable, despite his having Autism and ADHD. He actually looks forward to going there with me, whether it be for my allergy shots or even when he needed allergy skin testing. When you’re a patient at the Allergy and Asthma clinic, you are treated as if you are the only patient they have, even when the waiting room is full. Dr. Engler has hired truly excellent staff, from the front desk people to the nurses and medical assistants. If you have allergies and/or asthma and you live on the Peninsula or even in the city, I highly recommend that you visit the Allergy and Asthma Clinic. They are truly amazing and will make you feel so much better.
