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Warning-sign checks

Milk allergy: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services immediately if a reaction causes:

    • Difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, wheezing, or persistent coughing
    • Swelling of the tongue or throat, trouble swallowing, or a hoarse voice
    • Collapse, faintness, confusion, or a pale and floppy appearance
    • Rapidly worsening symptoms affecting more than one body system

    If an adrenaline auto-injector has been prescribed, use it as directed in the emergency plan and then call emergency services.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Do not wait to see whether an antihistamine works.

    A person treated for anaphylaxis needs medical observation because symptoms can return.

    Repeated forceful vomiting with severe tiredness, paleness, poor responsiveness, or signs of dehydration also needs urgent assessment, particularly in a baby.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment if milk repeatedly seems to cause hives, vomiting, diarrhoea, worsening eczema, blood in stools, feeding problems, or poor growth.

    Seek earlier advice if symptoms are persistent or the diet has become very restricted.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Milk allergy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.