An allergic reaction to milk and dairy products can be suspected based on characteristic symptoms that appear after eating. Typically, symptoms develop within minutes to an hour after a meal, according to Alexander Umnov, a senior lecturer at the Department of Surgery at the State University of Education, as reported by infohub.kz.
Umnov noted that allergy symptoms are often nonspecific and can mimic lactose intolerance or other gastrointestinal issues. It is important to observe the connection between dairy consumption and worsening health. Common signs of an allergic reaction include skin itching, redness, swelling, hives, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, nasal congestion, and cough.
According to the doctor, in IgE-mediated allergies, the reaction develops quickly — usually within an hour of exposure to the allergen. However, some forms of allergy may manifest several hours or even days later. Particular attention should be paid to unusual reactions after even small amounts of milk, such as in coffee. Warning signs may include facial numbness, burning palms, cough, or a stuffy nose.
To aid diagnosis, the doctor recommends keeping a food diary and noting which products cause symptoms. A definitive diagnosis can only be made by an allergist-immunologist. Confirmation methods may include temporary elimination of dairy from the diet, blood tests for IgE immunoglobulin, or skin prick tests.