If you’re reading this, chances are you suspect that something’s just not right with your baby — maybe it’s the constant crying, the eczema flare-ups, or those never-ending tummy troubles. You’ve done your research, and the term CMPA (Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy) has come up more than once.

So how do you know if your child has CMPA? Let’s break it down together.

What is CMPA?

Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy (CMPA), also called Cow’s Milk Allergy (CMA), is an immune system reaction to one or more proteins found in cow’s milk. It is one of the most common food allergies in babies and young children, especially in the first year of life.

Common Signs and Symptoms of CMPA

CMPA symptoms can vary greatly from child to child — and they often mimic other common infant conditions, which makes diagnosis tricky.

Here are some red flags to watch out for, grouped by system:

🧠 General Symptoms:

• Inconsolable crying or irritability (often labeled as “colic”)
• Poor weight gain or growth (failure to thrive)
• Sleep disturbances or short sleep cycles

🧴 Skin:

• Eczema or dry, itchy skin that won’t improve
• Hives, rashes, or swelling (especially after feeding)
• Persistent nappy rash

🫁 Respiratory:

• Chronic cough, wheezing, or noisy breathing
• Runny nose or nasal congestion (without a cold)
• Sneezing or recurrent ear infections

🍽️ Gastrointestinal:

• Reflux or frequent spit-up
• Diarrhea, sometimes with mucus or blood
• Constipation
• Vomiting after feeds
• Excessive gas or bloating
• Green, frothy, or foul-smelling stools

Some children may have delayed-onset reactions, appearing hours or even days after consuming milk protein — making the link harder to trace.

Is CMPA & Lactose Intolerance the same?

No, it’s different!
CMPA is an allergy to proteins (like casein or whey) in cow’s milk, while lactose intolerance is a digestive issue involving the sugar (lactose) in milk. CMPA can involve the immune system and sometimes lead to serious reactions, while lactose intolerance is usually less severe.

So, When do I actually see a Doctor 🩺

If you suspect your child has CMPA, especially if symptoms appear after formula feeding or breastfeeding (since cow’s milk proteins can pass through breast milk) — consult a pediatrician or allergist.

They might:

• Recommend an elimination diet (removing cow’s milk from the baby’s and/or breastfeeding parent’s diet)
• Suggest a trial of hypoallergenic formula
• Refer for allergy testing (skin prick or blood tests) in some cases

You’re Not Alone

Navigating CMPA can be overwhelming — emotionally and logistically. But remember: with the right support, knowledge, and planning, your child can thrive.

That’s why we created The No Moo Crew — to give parents like you the tools, resources, and community to manage CMPA with confidence and clarity.

Join the Crew 💛

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Let’s take the stress out of dairy-free living — together.

Source References:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cows-milk-allergy/

https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2007-3022

https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg116

https://www.allergy.org.au/patients/food-allergy/cows-milk-dairy-allergy