Baby's Blisters: Allergies, Eczema, and Dietary Concerns

Blister

Hello: My baby is under seven months old.
The allergy screening showed a low range total IgE of 1.67, and everything else is normal.
The parents do not have any allergic conditions.
Previously, there was a phenomenon of constipation, so after reaching six months, I started giving him honey (about three weeks ago); I have also used propolis.
Recently, about one to two weeks ago, I introduced rice cereal and wheat flour.

1.
About a week ago, I noticed blisters on his upper left back, which have been increasing in number and are about the size of a coin.
The dermatologist said it is eczema.
My questions are: Is this an allergy? Does he have an allergic constitution? Could it be due to honey, propolis, rice cereal, or wheat flour? Should I stop using honey, rice cereal, and wheat flour?
2.
After consuming honey, he had soft stools, and this week he has had loose stools.
On one day, he passed gas twice and had a bowel movement.
(I immediately stopped giving him honey tea.) Is this considered diarrhea? Why is he having daily bowel movements but still experiencing hard stools? (He usually has both hard and loose stools.) I do not understand why this is happening.
What should I do now?

SNOOPY, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/13

Dr. Gu Qingxian reply Pediatrics

1.
Pediatricians generally advise that infants under 1 year old should not consume honey or propolis due to the risk of botulism.

2.
Infants who are six months old can eat rice cereal and wheat cereal.
If a rash develops, it is advisable to stop these cereals; if the rash resolves, they can be reintroduced after a few days.
If the rash reappears, an allergy to rice or wheat cereal may be suspected.

3.
For infants with constipation, drinking black date juice mixed with cane sugar can lead to quick improvement.

Reply Date: 2004/08/13

More Info

When it comes to understanding the various skin issues and dietary concerns of infants, particularly in the context of allergies, eczema, and gastrointestinal health, it's essential to approach these topics with care and attention to detail. Based on your inquiry regarding your baby, who is under seven months old and has developed blisters on the skin, here are some insights and recommendations.

1. Understanding the Skin Condition
The blisters on your baby's back, which have been diagnosed as eczema (or atopic dermatitis), can indeed be linked to allergies. Eczema is often associated with an allergic response, and while your baby's total IgE level is low, it does not completely rule out the possibility of food allergies or sensitivities. The introduction of new foods, such as rice and wheat cereals, can sometimes trigger allergic reactions, especially in infants with a predisposition to allergies.

Given that you have recently introduced honey and bee propolis, it's crucial to note that honey is not recommended for infants under one year due to the risk of botulism. Even though you mentioned that your baby has been consuming honey for about three weeks, it would be wise to discontinue this immediately, as it could be a contributing factor to the skin condition and gastrointestinal symptoms.

2. Dietary Considerations
The introduction of solid foods, including rice and wheat, should be done gradually and with careful monitoring for any adverse reactions. If you suspect that any of these foods might be causing the eczema, it would be prudent to eliminate them from your baby's diet temporarily and observe if there is an improvement in the skin condition.

Regarding the gastrointestinal symptoms, you mentioned that your baby has experienced soft stools and occasional hard stools. This inconsistency can be attributed to several factors, including dietary changes, hydration levels, and the introduction of new foods. It's not uncommon for infants to have varying stool consistencies, especially when transitioning to solids. However, if your baby is experiencing diarrhea (defined as more than three watery stools in a day), it is essential to consult a pediatrician.

3. Managing Eczema and Allergies
For managing eczema, consider the following steps:
- Moisturization: Regularly apply a fragrance-free moisturizer to your baby's skin to help maintain hydration and create a barrier against irritants.

- Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, hypoallergenic soaps and avoid products with fragrances or harsh chemicals that can exacerbate skin irritation.

- Clothing: Dress your baby in soft, breathable fabrics to minimize irritation. Avoid wool and synthetic fibers that can cause itching.

- Avoid Triggers: Keep a diary of your baby's diet and any skin reactions to help identify potential allergens or irritants.

4. Monitoring and Follow-Up
Since your baby has a history of constipation, it's essential to ensure that their diet includes adequate hydration and fiber as they transition to solids. If you notice any significant changes in bowel habits, such as prolonged constipation or diarrhea, consult your pediatrician for further evaluation.

In summary, it is crucial to approach your baby's skin and gastrointestinal issues with a comprehensive understanding of potential allergens and dietary impacts. Discontinuing honey and closely monitoring the introduction of new foods will be vital steps in managing your baby's health. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking guidance from a pediatric dermatologist or allergist may provide further insights and tailored management strategies.

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