7 Ceaselessly Requested Questions About Milk Protein Allergy in Infants

2024-06-16 22:00:00

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Inconsolable crying, cramping, discomfort… these signs will not be unusual in infants, however when signs worsen, signs equivalent to an allergy to cow’s milk protein might seem. Pediatrician Marc Raes explains.

What are the most typical signs of cow’s milk protein allergy in infants?

Dr. Marc Raes: “Milk allergy is an allergic response to proteins in milk. It shouldn’t be confused with lactose intolerance, which is characterised by sensitivity to the lactose current in merchandise. Some signs, equivalent to redness of the pores and skin, Itching and vomiting might happen instantly after ingestion. Different signs, equivalent to exacerbation of atopic eczema, vomiting, diarrhea, or discomfort might happen hours and even days later. If signs are extreme, it is strongly recommended to seek the advice of a physician. Rule out potential milk allergy »

What ought to mother and father do with the assistance of a physician if they believe cow’s milk protein allergy?

Dr. Marc Raes: “Mother and father should reply and, relying on the severity of signs, testing could also be thought of. Pores and skin assessments for allergic reactions can present a sign however not a definitive prognosis. Due to this fact, briefly keep away from using any merchandise containing milk Crucial. If the infant responds effectively to this remedy and reacts once more when cow’s milk is reintroduced, it’s clearly an allergy »

What are the potential long-term results of untreated cow’s milk protein allergy on infants?

Dr. Marc Raes: “Not solely will your child really feel uncomfortable, however there may additionally be irritation within the intestines. This could restrict nutrient absorption and should result in dietary insufficiency. »

Are there sure meals that breastfeeding moms ought to keep away from if their child is allergic to cow’s milk proteins?

Dr. Marc Raes: “A child allergic to cow’s milk proteins might develop an allergic response to breast milk if his mom consumes milk merchandise. Due to this fact, these merchandise, equivalent to yogurt and butter, needs to be prevented. »

Are there any alternate options for infants who will not be breastfed?

Dr. Marc Raes: “We are able to provide them hypoallergenic meals. The purpose is to cut back the scale of the milk proteins as a lot as potential as a result of the smaller the protein, the much less allergenic it’s.

Some toddler formulation are extensively hydrolyzed in order that the proteins are fully cleaved, lowering the danger of allergic reactions. You too can use amino acid milk as an alternative. After about two weeks, the protein will disappear from the infant’s physique. »

What function do genetics play within the improvement of cow’s milk protein allergy in infants?

Dr. Marc Raes: “There’s a genetic part to the sort of allergy, and the danger of being affected will increase from 15% to 25-30%. Nonetheless, there isn’t any level in eliminating dairy merchandise instantly. You need to solely react when signs seem . »

What recommendation would you give to oldsters of infants with cow’s milk protein allergy to make their lives simpler?

Dr. Marc Raes: “An important factor is to observe the recommendation of your treating physician and search assist. Cow’s milk protein allergy is a meals allergy that disappears over time. In session together with your physician, it may be reintroduced based mostly on the kind of response your youngster has Sure meals. You may try to typically make errors, however by the tip of the primary 12 months of life, half or somewhat greater than half of kids will not be allergic. After a 12 months, about three-quarters of toddlers will. . »

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Erin talks about her youngster Liam’s allergy to cow’s milk protein.

“The primary week with Liam, every thing gave the impression to be going effectively. We had been consuming and sleeping frequently, however we seen that he cried loads when he was awake. The crying appeared to worsen, as if he It felt like one thing was mistaken. After the lengthy IVF course of, we had been so pleased to have Liam, however as he was nonetheless crying a lot after three weeks, we began to fret about it throughout our go to to ONE. Yam confirmed no apparent indicators of discomfort, apart from a rash on his face and abdomen, which we thought was child pimples. The nurse contacted a pediatrician who advisable reflux remedy. Sadly, the aid was short-lived. . We needed to maintain a chart to trace when he cried most frequently, and it turned out Liam cried as much as eight hours a day.

We had been then referred to a specialist who took the bull by the horns. Liam had an ultrasound of his gastrointestinal tract and located nothing irregular. Nonetheless, there was point out of an allergy to cow’s milk protein. I eradicated all dairy from my weight loss program, together with hidden sources like broth and chili flakes. After two weeks with out dairy, Liam was doing higher, however I used to be struggling. I by no means dared to swallow something once more for concern of inflicting a response in my child. We finally switched to synthetic milk based mostly on free amino acids. Liam felt higher.

The primary few weeks had been troublesome, however now that Liam is 14 months previous we’re steadily introducing dairy. Milk appears to be the one factor that impacts his bowel actions, however it does not actually hassle Liam, which makes us much more frightened. (snigger)”

Breastfeeding is probably the most best diet for infants.

Supply: Danone press launch

Final up to date: June 2024

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