Re-evaluating cow's milk allergy: when you can try reintroducing it
Many children improve as they grow older, but when and where to try needs to be planned by a professional.
Why things change
The natural course of cow's milk allergy differs from person to person. Some children gradually build tolerance as they grow and can return to a normal diet. Others keep having it. Whether tolerance has developed cannot be judged by "eating a little to see what happens", especially in people who have had a severe reaction.
When an evaluation is usually done
- Some time has passed since the last clear reaction, and symptoms have been stable for a long time
- Relevant test results have changed, and the doctor, taking the history into account, considers an evaluation appropriate
- The family and carers can help with observation and have the conditions to handle an emergency
Why it is stressed that this should be done in hospital
Food reintroduction evaluation may use graded, step-by-step increasing doses, carried out in a hospital setting so that any reaction can be treated promptly. Trying at home carries risks, especially if there has been difficulty breathing, throat tightness or a whole-body reaction in the past. If the evaluation is passed, the doctor will give advice on everyday intake and a follow-up plan. If it is not passed, avoidance must continue and the evaluation repeated as planned.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.