A milk allergy is considered one of the most common food allergens in children, according to MayoClinic.com. A milk allergy is considered incurable but can be managed. Most children outgrow a milk allergy by the age of three. A common reaction from a milk allergy is itchy skin resulting from the development of hives or eczema. Any rash caused by a food allergy needs to be assessed by a medical doctor for diagnosis and treatment options.
Milk Allergy
Someone with a milk allergy has a hypersensitivity to one or more proteins found in the milk, according to KidsHealth.org. Eighty percent of the protein is found in the curd, and 20 percent is found in the whey. A person with a milk allergy may be allergic to one or both portions of the milk. A milk allergy is not to be confused with milk sensitivity or lactose intolerance. Milk sensitivity is exclusively related to the digestive tract and does not involve the immune system.
Hives
The most common skin symptoms from a milk allergy are hives and eczema. Hives are defined by MedlinePlus as itchy, red welts on the skin as the result of an allergic reaction. The welts form as a result of inflammation in the skin from high levels of histamine released during an allergic reaction. Hives form in clusters with defined borders and appear to migrate across the body. Hives typically subside within 24 hours. If they last longer than 24 hours, talk with a doctor.
Eczema
Eczema is a rare skin condition that mainly affects infants but can affect adults alike. There is no cure for eczema, but it is manageable, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Eczema from a milk allergy will develop a few minutes after ingesting dairy. The rash begins as small, red spots that become severely itchy. When the skin is scratched, it becomes more irritated and forms into blister-like bumps. Extreme cases of eczema can cause the blisters to ooze and leave permanent damage.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms from a milk allergy may include digestive issues and respiratory complications. Digestive issues include abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, vomiting and nausea. The lungs can become inflamed, leading to asthma-like symptoms, including shortness of breathe, wheezing, coughing, chest pain and difficulty breathing, according to MayoClinic.com. The sinuses can also become inflamed, causing a runny nose, nasal congestion and sinus pressure pain.
Treatment
Treat a milk allergy by avoiding all products containing cow's milk. Treat skin rashes by taking an over-the-counter antihistamine and using topical hydrocortisone creams, according to MedlinePlus.
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