What is the reason behind infants developing allergies to milk?
Many children have allergies to milk, specifically cow’s milk, but there is confusion among parents about why this occurs. Many people mistakenly believe that milk allergy is a digestive disorder. At GREEN Department Store, I will provide an explanation of why babies are prone to milk allergies in the following article. I invite readers to refer to it!
First Causes of cow’s milk protein allergy in children
Cow’s milk protein allergy occurs in children when the baby’s immune system thinks that the protein components in milk are harmful to the body. Therefore, the body produces IgE immune antibodies that neutralize these proteins (allergens). There are two main proteins in milk that cause allergies. Specifically:
– Casein: found in the solid part of curdled milk.
– Whey: This substance is found in the liquid that remains in milk after it has been coagulated.
When the body is exposed to cow’s milk protein repeatedly, IgE antibodies recognize them and notify the immune system to release histamine and other allergenic chemicals. This is what causes allergies.
In addition, cow’s milk protein allergy can be genetic. That means if a child’s parents have a history of allergic diseases, there is a high likelihood that the child will be allergic to cow’s milk protein.
2 Symptoms of milk allergy in children
Common signs of milk allergy in children include runny nose, itchy eyes, dry throat, rash, hives, nausea, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and even anaphylaxis. Typically, when children are allergic to cow’s milk protein, they may also be allergic to other foods such as eggs, peanuts, soy, beef, or experience skin diseases, asthma, and allergic rhinitis.
Symptoms can appear within 2 hours after the baby drinks milk or as late as 48 hours.
3 Caring for children allergic to cow’s milk protein
When children are diagnosed with cow’s milk protein allergy, they should avoid consuming cow’s milk and cow’s milk products. It is also necessary to avoid other types of animal milk, such as goat’s milk, as it can also cause allergies.
Mothers should breastfeed their babies while introducing a well-balanced weaning diet. If breastfeeding is not continued, babies can be given fully hydrolyzed protein milk – this type of milk has been broken down into small proteins to limit allergies and promote better digestion.
Additionally, cow’s milk protein allergy is typically seen in children under 3 years of age. As children grow older, this condition usually disappears.
See also: How to determine if your baby is allergic to formula milk?
The cause of milk allergy in children is related to the substances found in milk and can also be influenced by genetics. Therefore, mothers need to pay attention and carefully consider before giving milk to their children to avoid allergic reactions.
Reference source: eva.vn
