Allergy
Allergy
A cow’s milk protein allergy results from the baby’s immune system reacting to the protein in cow’s milk. Milk protein allergy is the most common food allergy in infancy. The symptoms can appear anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours or days after the baby is exposed to the protein. Generally, babies become less sensitive as they grow older and this type of allergy may disappear by the time they are one or two years old.
The most common symptoms are:
- Fussiness
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
You also might see:
- Blood or mucus in the stool
- Skin rash (eczema)
- Stuffy nose
- Hives or wheezing
If you suspect that your baby is allergic to the protein in cow’s milk, discuss the possibility with your baby’s doctor.
If you are breastfeeding, you may consider eliminating cow’s milk from your diet — speak to your doctor or dietitian to make sure you receive the appropriate nutrition support.
If you are formula feeding, your doctor might suggest a goat's milk formula.
