Can Dairy Allergy Cause Fever?

A dairy allergy itself does not typically cause a fever. Allergic reactions to dairy usually involve symptoms such as:

  • Skin reactions (hives, eczema)
  • Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
  • Respiratory symptoms (wheezing, coughing, nasal congestion)
  • Anaphylaxis (a severe, potentially life-threatening reaction)

However, there are a few scenarios in which a fever might be indirectly associated with a dairy allergy:

  1. Secondary Infection: Severe allergic reactions can sometimes lead to complications like secondary infections, which can cause fever. For example, if a child has severe eczema due to a dairy allergy and the skin becomes infected, this could result in a fever.
  2. Immune Response: While not common, some individuals might have a strong systemic immune response to allergens, which could include a low-grade fever.
  3. Coexisting Conditions: It’s possible for someone to have a dairy allergy and concurrently develop a fever due to another illness or infection (like a viral or bacterial infection) that is unrelated to the allergy.

If you or someone else experiences a fever along with symptoms of a dairy allergy, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. They can help differentiate between a typical allergic reaction and other potential causes of fever.