Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) is a relatively common allergy that tends to show up within a few weeks of a child being born. This condition causes the lining of the intestines to become inflamed, which can impact nutrient absorption and create a negative association with feeding, which can cause some babies to refuse milk. It's not only formula-fed babies that show signs of CMPA, as breastfeeding babies whose mothers consume dairy products can also experience the pain and discomfort caused by the condition.

Being aware of the signs of CMPA can allow you to get your baby the medical support they need to thrive and can prevent you feeling like you are somehow not doing a good enough job looking after your child, which may be how you feel when your baby seems to be so unsettled and upset much of the time. Here's an overview of the symptoms and treatment for CMPA in babies:

Symptoms

Your baby will not necessarily have all the symptoms noted here, but common symptoms of CMPA include being irritable and arching the back after feeds, skin rashes, regularly crying with no apparent cause, diarrhea, and developing an extended stomach after feeds. Gastric reflux is also common in babies with CMPA, and this can cause your baby to bring up some of their milk and gastric acid during or after feeds. This is painful for babies, as the gastric acid can irritate the lining of the esophagus, so babies with reflux are difficult to settle and may not like lying down, as this can increase the amount of gastric acid flowing out of their stomach. Some babies with CMPA will also have blood in their stools and may struggle to gain weight.

Treatment

Every baby suspected of having CMPA should be assessed by a pediatrician to ensure there are no other underlying health concerns causing their symptoms. Your doctor will carry out a skin prick allergy test, and you may be asked to keep a feeding and symptoms diary to confirm the relationship between your baby consuming dairy and their symptoms. Breastfeeding mothers will need to switch to a dairy-free diet, while babies who are formula-fed will be moved onto a hypoallergenic formula. This type of formula may contain cow's milk that's had the protein responsible for causing an allergic reaction hydrolyzed. Some babies with CMPA can tolerate this type of formula, while others will need a dairy-free formula made with amino acids or soy.

Your doctor will monitor your baby regularly to ensure they are growing and reaching developmental milestones. You may also be referred to a dietician to support you as you wean your child onto solid foods when they are old enough. The dietician can guide you through the process of trying to reintroduce dairy into your child's diet or help you to plan a balanced diet that ensures your child's calcium needs are met without consuming dairy.

Babies often grow out of CMPA, but it's a painful condition that should be formally diagnosed and managed by a pediatrician as soon as you notice symptoms. Prompt diagnosis can prevent your baby from experiencing unnecessary discomfort and relieve some of the stress you may be feeling by looking after a baby who's miserable much of the time, so schedule an urgent appointment with your doctor if you suspect your baby has CMPA.

Reach out to a clinic like Kitsap Children's Clinic LLP to learn more.