Baby Allergy: Signs To Look Out For

It is not just adults that can develop allergy symptoms. Babies can too! What is perhaps difficult for parents to truly know about their babies’ condition is for the want of communication. Babies cannot verbalise their discomfort nor take notes about their reactions. Hence it is really up to the parents to be observant and to look out for signs.

Distinguishing whether your baby is suffering from a cold or an allergy is important to applying the right treatment method. Here are some considerations for you:

1. Is your baby constantly having a running nose or wiping and pushing at his nose? An allergy may be suspected for this case. This is especially so if the cold does not appear to go away.

2. Are the baby’s eyes itchy, red or water? Is there a discoloration under the eyes of purple or blue (allergic shiners)?

3. Does your baby have a skin rash that flares up frequently? Do you find that his skin gets inflammed on contact with certain products or even his clothes?

If the answer to one or more of these questions is a yes, than your baby will need to be evaluated by the baby’s pediatrician so that it can be determined if the baby has allergies.

Reactions to triggers can come from food, medications, insects, animal dander, dust mites, pollen and mold. A baby can have respiratory symptoms, skin symptoms or intestinal issues.

Babies with nasal allergies may be reacting to dust mites, animal dander or molds. Take note that some babies are also allergic to bedding such as feather pillows, down comforters, and chenille or wool blankets. Tobacco smoke can irritate and worsen allergy symptoms.

Allergies can run in families so if there is a family history of allergies, then you may need to observe your baby more carefully for symptoms. Also inform the pediatrician concerning medical and family history, to obtain appropriate advice when it comes to introducing your baby to solid foods. Please note that milk allergies can also happen when your baby switches over to formula.

Monitor the environment and surroundings carefully to minimise the exposure of your baby to potential allergens. Everything that touches your baby including bedding, toys, clothing and even laundry detergent, should be scrutinized.