Dizziness and Diarrhea After Drinking Milk: Allergy or Intolerance?

Dizziness after drinking milk?

At the end of May, during my recovery from a fracture due to a fall, I was drinking milk every day.
I usually experience diarrhea from drinking milk, and sometimes it happens daily, while other times it does not.
Recently, I have been experiencing diarrhea immediately after drinking milk, and I also feel dizzy; the dizziness subsides only after the diarrhea.
I also feel dizzy after consuming beverages that contain milk powder.
Additionally, I have developed a red rash on my left shoulder.
I would like to know if this is currently an allergic reaction.

Niming, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/09/06

Dr. Gao Jiankai reply Internal Medicine

Hello, thank you for your question.
Based on the symptoms you described, it seems more like a temporary lactose intolerance.
Diarrhea after consuming milk can make it harder for the body to absorb the milk, and it can also lead to mild dehydration and dizziness following diarrhea.
These symptoms are more indicative of lactose intolerance than a milk allergy.
Milk allergy primarily occurs in infants and young children, and it is quite rare in adults.
If you still have concerns, you may want to consult a nearby allergy and immunology specialist.
Changhua Hospital's Allergy and Immunology Department is here to assist you.

Reply Date: 2019/09/06

More Info

When it comes to understanding the symptoms of dizziness and diarrhea after consuming milk, it is essential to differentiate between lactose intolerance and a milk allergy, as both conditions can present with similar gastrointestinal symptoms but have different underlying mechanisms and implications for treatment.

Lactose Intolerance is a common condition where the body lacks sufficient levels of lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. When lactose is not properly digested, it can lead to symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal cramps. The dizziness you experience after drinking milk could be related to dehydration from diarrhea, which can lead to a drop in blood pressure and subsequent dizziness.
On the other hand, a milk allergy is an immune response to one or more proteins found in milk, such as casein or whey. Symptoms of a milk allergy can include gastrointestinal issues (like diarrhea), skin reactions (such as hives or rashes), respiratory problems, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. The appearance of a rash on your left shoulder could indicate an allergic reaction, especially if it coincides with milk consumption.

Given your symptoms of dizziness, diarrhea, and the rash, it is crucial to consider the following steps:
1. Elimination Diet: Temporarily eliminate all dairy products from your diet to see if your symptoms improve. This includes milk, cheese, yogurt, and any processed foods containing dairy.

2. Hydration: Ensure you stay well-hydrated, especially if you are experiencing diarrhea. Dehydration can exacerbate dizziness and lead to further complications.

3. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It is essential to seek medical advice. A healthcare provider can perform tests to determine whether you have lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. They may recommend a lactose tolerance test or an allergy test.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of your food intake and symptoms. Note when you experience dizziness and diarrhea in relation to dairy consumption. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.

5. Consider Alternatives: If you are lactose intolerant, there are many lactose-free dairy products available. If you have a milk allergy, you will need to avoid all dairy products entirely and consider alternative sources of calcium and vitamin D, such as fortified plant-based milks (almond, soy, oat) or supplements.

6. Skin Reactions: For the rash on your shoulder, it may be beneficial to consult a dermatologist or your primary care physician. They can assess whether it is indeed an allergic reaction and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include antihistamines or topical corticosteroids.

In conclusion, your symptoms warrant further investigation to determine the underlying cause. Whether it is lactose intolerance or a milk allergy, understanding your body's response to dairy is crucial for managing your health effectively. Avoiding dairy until you have clarity on your condition is a prudent approach, and consulting with a healthcare professional will provide you with the guidance needed to navigate your symptoms safely.

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