Milk allergies are among of the most common food allergies. Between 2 and 3 percent of infants are allergic to milk, but most outgrow it by the time they are 2 or 3, according to KidsHealth. Adults can be allergic to milk as well, though a milk allergy is different than lactose intolerance. An allergy is an immune response triggered by exposure to the food allergen. Reactions can be severe, and potentially life-threatening. Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the allergy.
Anaphylaxis
Severe, anaphylactic reactions to milk are rare but possible. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention. Signs of an anaphylactic reaction include wheezing, difficulty breathing, throat constriction, and swelling of the face and mouth. With anaphylaxis, blood pressure can suddenly drop sharply, causing shock and loss of consciousness. Children and adults with anaphylaxis need immediate medical attention so they can be given an injection of epinephrine to stop the reaction, the Mayo Clinic advises.
Loose Stool
Loose, watery stool or diarrhea can also be a sign of a milk allergy, according to KidsHealth. In some cases, blood may be visible in the stool, and people may have more frequent bowel movements. These types of reactions can develop soon after exposure to milk. In some cases, though, symptoms may not develop for several days after consuming dairy products.
Gastrointestinal Distress
People who are allergic to milk may also experience gastrointestinal discomfort after eating dairy products. Some report an upset stomach, or abdominal cramps or pain, the Mayo Clinic notes. Vomiting is also possible, usually immediately after eating or drinking milk.
Skin Reactions
Hives can develop as a response to a milk allergy, usually immediately after consuming it. Some people also develop an itchy rash on the skin, often around the mouth or on the cheeks, the Mayo Clinic reports.
Cough
In some cases, ingesting milk can cause coughing, wheezing, or sneezing in people who are allergic to milk. Other cold-like symptoms such as runny or stuffy nose and itchy, watery eyes can also develop, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Colic
Babies who are allergic to milk can develop colic, or be otherwise irritable or difficult to comfort or soothe, KidsHealth explains. Most babies will develop signs of a milk allergy during the first few months of life, but the condition may not be diagnosed for some time. Because milk can be a large part of a baby's diet, this can make the baby uncomfortable and fussy.
