Hello,

I'm new to the list, and hope it's OK just to jump in with a response ...
but it seemed it might be useful to share some information.

Dairy allergies can sometimes be diagnosed through positive skin prick tests
(SPT) or RAST tests, but this isn't necessarily the case. The kinds of
allergic responses that cause immediate reactions are also the ones most
likely to result in a positive test, because they're usually IgE mediated.
Other allergic reactions, thought to involve T-cells, may still not appear
in the tests. They're often diagnosed through "challenges"--in other words,
trying some dairy in the allergist's office to see what happens. It's safer
to do it in the allergist's office, because there's a ready response
available if a bad reaction occurred. In other words, you might want to
consider saying "yes" to both your options--getting tested by your
allergist, which, if other tests are negative, might involve a dairy
challenge.

Here's a website with a simple description:
http://www.medeserv.com.au/ascia/aer/infobulletins/hp_allergy_milk.htm

Also--gastrointestinal distress can be caused by an allergic reaction to
dairy. It's even a commonly noted symptom.

I hope that helps ...

Ms. C. 
(Adult with a severe dairy allergy, triggered by ingestion, inhalation, or
contact)

-----Original Message-----

--- Amanda Hemmerich <[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> Hello.
>    
>   I have accepted for the last 15 years that milk is not a part of my
diet. I am perfectly fine with this, but have been trying to determine
whether I am a very sensitive lactose intolerant individual or if I have a
milk allergy. I read about some of the allergic reactions to milk, and I
exhibit the sinus congestion, headaches, dark circles under my eyes, and I
notice a change in my mood. But along with these symptoms, I always
experience the gastrointestinal distress. I keep considering getting tested
for the allergy, because if I am positive, I would like to explore
introducing raw milk products into my diet. But if I am negative, then I
will know that I need to be even more cautious about food labels. Any
suggestions?
>    
>   Thank you. 
>    
>   Amanda