Lactose Intolerance vs. Milk Allergy in Children: Key Differences You Need to Know | Covenant Allergy & Asthma

While most of us have heard of lactose intolerance, if your child is having uncomfortable symptoms after consuming dairy, that doesn’t necessarily indicate that he or she is lactose-intolerant. While 30 to 50 million Americans suffer from lactose intolerance, dairy allergies are often more prominent in children. In fact, dairy allergy is one of the most common allergies affecting children and babies.

As a concerned parent, you want to do everything you can to keep your child happy and healthy. If you’ve noticed your child has an adverse reaction to dairy and aren’t sure where to start, here is an educational guide to help clarify the difference between lactose intolerance and milk allergies for your child.

###Difference in Causes Lactose Intolerance:

Milk Allergy:

  • Involves the immune system
  • Caused by the body viewing milk as a threat
  • Typically outgrown by age 5

###Difference in Symptoms Lactose Intolerance:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Bloating and gas
  • Nausea and diarrhea
  • Occur 30 minutes to 2 hours after ingestion

Milk Allergy:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Nausea and diarrhea
  • Rash and hives
  • Swelling of the lips or throat
  • Troubled breathing and/or swallowing
  • Occur immediately and up to 2 hours after ingestion

###How Can I Tell the Difference? After reviewing symptoms and risk factors, doctors will often have a strong inclination of the culprit. However, if further testing is required, the process of elimination and subsequent treatment differs for each.

For lactose intolerance: A specific test will measure blood glucose levels after lactose is consumed. If blood glucose does not rise, the lactose is not being digested. Often those who suffer from lactose intolerance can consume small amounts of dairy with digestive aids.

For dairy allergy: A skin prick test is typical. This is where a small bit of dairy will be placed under your child’s skin to detect any symptoms. While dairy allergies are often outgrown, your child should avoid dairy and dairy products until a doctor has cleared his or her diagnosis.

If you suspect your child might be lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy, it is important that you get him or her examined immediately. Reaction to a dairy allergy can trigger anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal if left untreated. If your child is experiencing post-dairy symptoms, Covenant Allergy & Asthma can provide you with proper tests and treatment to keep your child healthy and safe.