Food Allergies In Infants

Food Allergies in Infants

by

Emily Somebody

New parents should be aware of the various signs that their child may be having an allergic reaction. Doctors are finding more children have allergies these days, but this is most likely due to more accurate diagnoses. This article will go over some common signs of allergies, and let you know what to do if you spot them.

When one or both parents have known allergies this increases the chance that their child will also have allergies. If the parents allergies are serious (anaphylaxis,) ask your doctor if you can screen the child early. A family doctor who knows both parents medical history is in a perfect position to do such a screening.

Patches of dry, scaly and itchy skin can be signs of eczema. Infants grow out of this skin rash in 80% of cases. Eczema can lead to asthma when it is paired with food allergies though. The best course of action is to ask your doctor to do a skin test.

A persistent cough that is brought on by crying, laughing, running or nerves could be a cold, or could be a sign of asthma. The best way to help your doctor make a correct diagnosis is to keep a record of the time and conditions that coughing takes place. Wheezing and shortness of breath can also be a sign of asthma. Note if the wheezing takes place in cold air, humid air, or after exercise. Again, keep a record of the time and conditions when wheezing takes place in order to help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis.

Finally, vomiting and stomach pain can be a sign of food allergy. Symptoms will arise within minutes of the food being eaten if it is indeed a food allergy. Milk, eggs, nuts, soy, and sesame are all foods that commonly cause reactions in infants. Don t attempt to feed these foods to your child until they reach six months old as doctors recommend that children stick to breast milk or

infant formula

until that age. If your child appears to be having trouble breathing, you should call an ambulance immediately. If the reaction is not that severe, you should visit your doctor as soon as possible instead.

While allergies are a real threat, don t spend too much time having anxiety over them. Ensure that you know what signs to look for and what action to take if an allergic reaction does occur. Feeding an appropriate diet that maximizes

your baby s nutrition

will keep him strong and healthy if he does get sick or have an allergic reaction. A meeting with your family doctor is always the best course of action if you suspect that your child may have allergies.

Emily enjoys writing about a variety of topics.

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