Milk allergy

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

Tests and diagnosis Complications Treatments and drugs Prevention

Definition

Cow's milk is one of the most common allergy-causing foods in children, and it's the leading cause of allergic reactions in very young children. Milk allergy affects about 2 percent to 3 percent of infants worldwide, and its signs and symptoms can be serious enough to cause distress not just for an allergic child, but also for the child's family. The good news is that most children outgrow a milk allergy by age 2 or 3.

Allergic reactions usually occur a few minutes to a few hours after you consume milk — but in some cases, it can be days before signs and symptoms occur. Signs and symptoms range from mild to severe and can include wheezing, vomiting, hives and digestive problems. Rarely, milk allergy can cause anaphylaxis — a severe, life-threatening reaction.

NEXT:

Symptoms