Unlike many food allergies, symptoms of a milk allergy can appear within a few minutes of drinking milk or take up to a few hours. Symptoms range in severity, but a milk allergy can cause conditions ranging from a simple upset stomach to more serious problems, like shock.

Skin Symptoms

Some of the first symptoms to appear during an allergic reaction to milk are skin issues. Hives, eczema, itching, flushing and a rash, especially around the mouth, are common reactions in the case of a milk allergy.

Respiratory Symptoms

An individual suffering from an allergic reaction to milk may experience coughing, wheezing or swelling in the throat, which can cause difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. If swelling in the throat occurs, medical help should be sought immediately.

Digestive Symptoms

Vomiting can occur moments after a person with a milk allergy drinks a glass of milk. However, most digestive symptoms, such as loose stool, diarrhea and abdominal cramping, usually occur hours after milk has been ingested. In some cases, an allergic reaction to milk can also cause traces of blood in the stool.

Other Symptoms

Other symptoms of an allergy to milk include common allergy symptoms, like runny nose, tingling around the mouth, dizziness and watery eyes.

Anaphylaxis

In severe, rare cases, an allergic reaction to milk can cause anaphylaxis. A life-threatening reaction, anaphylaxis restricts the airways, making it impossible for a person to breathe. If an individual experiences difficulty breathing, begins flushing, goes into shock or starts itching, seek medical help immediately, because these can all be signs of anaphylaxis.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Milk Allergy Symptoms

TeensHealth: Milk Allergy

Cleveland Clinic: Milk Allergies