Hi -

Based on your Cool Whip experience, you're probably allergic to casein (one
of the milk proteins).  You may ALSO be allergic to other milk proteins, or
to lactose, or both.  But when it comes to lactose-containing medications, it
may simply be that you're reacting to trace amounts of casein in the lactose.
It doesn't really matter though.  You need to try to find forms of the
medication that are lactose-free whenever possible.

For any medications that are prescribed for you, you can often (not always) find
a lcatose-free formulation.  For example, Benadryl tablets contain lactose but
the liquid form is lactose-free.  You can also try going through a
"compounding" pharmacy to get your medications made up just for you. (My web
site lists Stokes Pharmaceutical, which does compounding.)

As for a MedicAlert, I'd say yes to getting it.  If you're unable to communicate
for any reason, it will help your doctor give you the correct care.  (If
you need to go to a hospital, you're best off having someone bring your meals
to you from outside.  With care you CAN get a milk-free meal, so long as you're
not anaphylactic, but there will certainly be cross-contamination issues.)

My web site may give you some other ideas regarding how to live with your
milk allergy.  And yes, you may have another allergic trigger.  Keep a food
diary and see if you can figure it out.  (Although the trigger might be
environmental rather than food.)

Good luck, and welcome to the listserv!
--Beth Kevles
  [log in to unmask]
  http://web.mit.edu/kevles/www/nomilk.html -- a page for the milk-allergic
  Disclaimer:  Nothing in this message should be construed as medical
  advice.  Please consult with your own medical practicioner.