Dairy is a common food allergen that can have a direct effect on your skin. Common skin problems linked to dairy consumption are generally itchy skin, hives and eczema, according to KidsHealth.org. A person with a dairy allergy has a hypersensitivity to the proteins found in cow's milk. The hypersensitivity can lead to skin irritation and inflammation that can provoke pre-existing conditions, such as eczema. If you develop skin problems after consuming dairy, make an appointment with a physician to determine the cause.
When you experience an allergic reaction to dairy, your body produces histamine, a chemical responsible for common allergy symptoms, according to the Food Allergy Research and Education website. Histamine levels in your skin lead to inflammation and irritation which can cause your skin to become unstable and break out with a general or specific rash. You can have an allergy to the whey or curd aspect of the milk, leading to skin problems.
The effect of consuming dairy products with a dairy allergy can lead to skin problems and other common food allergy symptoms, according to KidsHealth.org. The other symptoms may include sinus complications, asthma and digestive issues. The nasal passages can become inflamed, blocking the ability to breathe through the nose and drain excess mucus properly. This leads to sinus headaches and postnasal drip. Asthma symptoms include coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. Digestive issues may entail gas, nausea and vomiting.
Hives are patches of skin that become inflamed, forming raised shapes on the skin that can grow or migrate in a matter of minutes. Hives are extremely itchy and typically appear with defined borders, according to MedlinePlus. If you develop hives should avoid scratching the affected areas to avoid further complications. Cracked skin leaves your body open to infection. Keep all open wounds covered with a wet compress.
The excessive production of histamine in your body triggers an eczema flare-up. Eczema mainly affects young children but it may persist into adulthood. Eczema appears as small red blisters that can fill up with liquid and weep. Common places eczema appears are on the face, arms and legs. When scratched the condition worsens, leading to increased discomfort, according to Skin Care Physicians.
Treat skin issues from diary products by eliminating dairy products. Treatment for hives and eczema is treated with topical hydrocortisone creams and antihistamines, according to MedlinePlus. If a dairy allergy leads to a severe reaction, it may require an injection of epinephrine.