What should you know about dairy allergy anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can affect breathing, blood pressure, skin and the digestive system. After dairy exposure, signs may include throat or tongue swelling, wheezing, hoarse voice, widespread hives, repeated vomiting, dizziness or collapse. Symptoms can progress quickly, and a skin rash is not required for anaphylaxis.

A previous mild reaction does not predict the next reaction. Milk ingredients can appear in foods, drinks, medicines or prepared products, so an allergy plan should cover accidental exposure.

If anaphylaxis is suspected, use the person’s adrenaline auto-injector as prescribed, call emergency services and state that anaphylaxis is suspected. Keep the person lying down with legs raised if comfortable; allow them to sit if breathing is difficult, and do not let them stand or walk. A second prescribed injector may be needed if symptoms continue, according to the emergency plan. Stay with the person until help arrives.

After recovery, arrange specialist review and allergy testing. Read labels carefully and ask about cross-contact, school or workplace plans and carrying adrenaline.

Seek emergency help for any breathing difficulty, wheezing, throat swelling, faintness, sudden confusion or symptoms affecting more than one body system after dairy exposure. Do not wait to see whether symptoms settle, and do not rely on an antihistamine alone for anaphylaxis. Even when symptoms improve, emergency assessment is needed because symptoms can return.

Ask how to recognise your reaction pattern, when to use each adrenaline injector, how to avoid hidden dairy, whether family members need training and what follow-up is needed after an emergency.