What is cow's milk protein allergy?

Cow's milk protein allergy (AMK) is one of the most common allergic conditions in infants and young children. It involves hypersensitivity of the body to proteins found in cow's milk and its products. It is often confused with lactose intolerance, which results from a lack of the enzyme responsible for digesting milk sugar. However, AMK is a completely different disease that can be dangerous to children's health.

Causes of cow's milk protein allergy

Cow's milk protein allergy results from hypersensitivity of the immune system to milk proteins. In the body of a sick child there is an immune reaction to these substances, resulting in various allergic symptoms. There are many theories about the causes of AMK, but the most common are genetic factors, improper maternal nutrition during pregnancy and infant feeding, and environmental factors.

Studies have shown that children whose families have allergies have a higher risk of developing them. In addition, inadequate maternal nutrition during pregnancy, such as the consumption of allergens, can influence the onset of allergies in the child. Also, the way infants are fed early introduction of cow's milk or cow's milk products into the diet may increase the risk of allergies.

Symptoms of cow's milk protein allergy

Symptoms of cow's milk protein allergy can be varied and involve different systems and organs. There may be skin symptoms, such as hives, rashes, itching, or swelling, as well as gastrointestinal symptoms, such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. Respiratory symptoms such as hoarseness, coughing, shortness of breath, or asthma are also common.

For infants, cow's milk protein allergy can also manifest as anxiety, difficulty eating and abnormal weight gain. In addition, allergic reactions can also affect the cardiovascular system, such as mild or severe vasospasm, leading to lower blood pressure and even anaphylactic shock.

Diagnosis and treatment of cow's milk protein allergy

Diagnosis of cow's milk protein allergy can be made by an allergist based on collected data, such as symptoms, family history, skin tests, or laboratory tests. Elimination of the allergen from the child's diet for a specified period of time, followed by reintroduction to confirm the allergy, is also often used.

Treatment of cow's milk protein allergy is based on the elimination of the allergen from the child's diet. In the case of infants where breast milk contains cow's milk protein, the use of special modified milk formulas that do not contain the allergen is required. It is also important to monitor the child's health and possible symptomatic treatment, such as the use of antihistamines or inhalants for respiratory symptoms.

Summary

Cow's milk protein allergy is a serious condition that can have a variety of symptoms and affect a child's development. The causes of allergy can be related to both genetic factors and improper nutrition of the mother and infant. Proper diagnosis and elimination of the allergen from the diet is crucial for successful treatment. If an allergy to cow's milk protein is suspected, always consult a doctor, who will conduct the appropriate tests and select the appropriate treatment.