Yes, a milk allergy can be very bad, even potentially life-threatening.
Milk allergy is not the same as lactose intolerance. It is a serious reaction to the proteins in cow's milk.
Milk Allergy vs. Lactose Intolerance
It's crucial to understand the difference between a milk allergy and lactose intolerance:
| Feature | Milk Allergy | Lactose Intolerance |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Immune system reaction to milk proteins | Inability to digest lactose (milk sugar) |
| Severity | Potentially life-threatening | Not life-threatening |
| System Affected | Immune system | Digestive system |
Potential Dangers of Milk Allergy
According to the reference, milk allergy is a potentially life-threatening immune system reaction to cow's milk proteins. This is why it's considered "bad." A severe allergic reaction, called anaphylaxis, can cause:
- Difficulty breathing
- Swelling of the throat
- A sudden drop in blood pressure
- Dizziness or loss of consciousness
