A milk allergy is a potentially deadly allergic reaction to one or more of the proteins found in cow’s milk or dairy products. It differs from milk intolerance, which is a sensitivity to the sugar found in milk products and does not involve the immune system. Symptoms of a milk allergy often include itchiness, rash, hives (smooth, raised pink or white bumps that appear on or beneath the skin), stomach cramps, nausea and difficulty breathing.

Symptoms can range from mild anaphylaxis (generalized reaction involving two or more body systems) to potentially life-threatening anaphylactic shock, which involves breathing problems and lowered blood pressure. It is impossible to know whether a person with a milk allergy is likely to have mild or severe symptoms after ingesting the proteins. Therefore people with milk allergies need to avoid all foods containing milk proteins and need to seek immediate medical attention in the case of accidental exposure.

The only effective treatment for milk allergies is to completely remove milk and dairy products from the diet. By practicing diligent avoidance, an individual can successfully remove the threat of a milk allergy reaction.

While milk allergies are common in young children, 70 to 80 percent of infants with a milk allergy outgrow it by the age of 4, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. However, some individuals do not outgrow their milk allergies and must permanently remove milk from their diets. Once a person has had an allergic reaction to milk, they should never attempt to reintroduce milk to the diet without the supervision of a physician.

Milk proteins are found in a variety of substances, particularly dairy products such as butters and cheeses. Some manufactured items (e.g., latex gloves) also contain milk proteins and must be avoided by anyone with a milk allergy. Because of the large number of products that contain milk proteins, individuals with this condition must pay very close attention to what they eat and come into contact with.

Removing milk completely from the diet can cause certain dietary concerns. Milk is a good source of several vitamins and minerals – particularly calcium. Individuals who remove milk from their diets should consult their physicians to learn how to properly supplement their diets with additional foods or vitamins.