Infant Allergies: Key Concerns and Solutions for Parents

Q: Infant Allergies: Key Concerns and Solutions for Parents

Dear mom, you are not at all foolish： To predict whether your baby will have allergies, there are two methods： 1) checking the allergy index in cord blood, or 2) considering the family history of allergies. <br>If either parent has a history of allergies, the baby's chance of dev

Regarding pediatric allergies..?

Hello Doctor: My baby is over a month old and has seborrheic dermatitis.
We did not perform a cord blood test at birth to check for allergic predisposition.
I would like to ask: (1) Are there any other methods to check if my baby is allergic? My baby has been drinking S26 formula since birth, and the stool color is yellow.
Recently, I've started giving him 120 c.c.
every 3-4 hours.
(2) However, in the past two days, the stool has changed to a yellow-green color and has a stronger odor.
What does this mean? I often experience nasal congestion and sometimes have itchy eyes and sneezing when exposed to temperature changes or dust, so I believe I have an allergic predisposition.
I have read some articles suggesting that allergic children should drink hydrolyzed protein formula, but my mother-in-law and husband think the baby may not be allergic, and since the stool appears normal and the color is fine, there's no need to change the formula.
(3) What happens if an allergic child does not drink hydrolyzed protein formula? (4) I am very concerned about my baby's skin condition.
Could seborrheic dermatitis worsen into atopic dermatitis? I have heard that atopic dermatitis is a troublesome condition.
Thank you, Doctor, for answering these four questions.

Ben Mama, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/06/19

Dr. Hong Shuokun reply Pediatrics

Dear mom, you are not at all foolish: To predict whether your baby will have allergies, there are two methods: 1) checking the allergy index in cord blood, or 2) considering the family history of allergies.
If either parent has a history of allergies, the baby's chance of developing allergies is 1 in 3; if both parents have allergies, the chance increases to 2 in 3.
The mother's allergy history is more significant than the father's, and siblings with allergies further increase the risk.
Do not underestimate the importance of family allergy history; its accuracy can rival that of cord blood testing.
It is normal for a baby's stool to turn green around one month of age, which indicates a higher iron content in formula and the odor is due to the baby's gut bacteria starting to break down lactose, producing gas.
If we consider family allergy history, for babies in high-risk allergy groups, using hydrolyzed protein formula may have a preventive effect against allergies.
Before the age of two, allergy symptoms often manifest as gastrointestinal and skin issues, which may include frequent spitting up, vomiting, and failure to thrive, as well as symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Atopic dermatitis typically appears around six months of age, while seborrheic dermatitis is common in many infants and usually resolves around three months; the two conditions are different.

Reply Date: 2006/06/19

More Info

Understanding infant allergies is crucial for parents, especially when dealing with conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, which can sometimes be a sign of an underlying allergic predisposition. Here’s a comprehensive response to your concerns:
1. Testing for Allergies: Currently, there are several methods to assess whether your baby may have allergies. While skin prick tests and blood tests (like specific IgE tests) are common for older children and adults, they are not typically performed on infants under six months. However, if there are significant concerns about allergies, you can consult a pediatric allergist who may recommend an evaluation based on your baby's symptoms and family history. In some cases, an elimination diet might be suggested, where certain foods are removed from the mother's diet if breastfeeding, or from the baby's diet if formula-fed, to see if symptoms improve.

2. Changes in Stool Color and Odor: The change in your baby's stool from yellow to yellow-green, along with a stronger odor, could indicate several things. It might be related to the formula being digested differently, or it could be a sign of an infection or a dietary intolerance. Green stools can sometimes occur when a baby is getting more foremilk (the milk at the beginning of a feeding) than hindmilk (the richer milk that comes later). If the odor is particularly foul, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician to rule out any gastrointestinal issues.

3. Protein Hydrolysate Formula: If your baby is indeed allergic, switching to a hydrolyzed protein formula can help manage symptoms. These formulas break down proteins into smaller pieces, making them less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. If your baby does not consume a hydrolyzed formula and has an allergy, they may experience symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, skin reactions, or respiratory issues. However, not all babies with allergies require this type of formula, and many can thrive on standard formulas. It’s essential to consult your pediatrician before making any changes.

4. Seborrheic Dermatitis vs. Atopic Dermatitis: Seborrheic dermatitis is common in infants and usually resolves on its own. It is characterized by scaly patches, red skin, and dandruff-like flakes, often on the scalp. While it can be concerning, it does not necessarily lead to atopic dermatitis (eczema). Atopic dermatitis is a more chronic condition often associated with allergies and can be influenced by genetic factors. To prevent seborrheic dermatitis from worsening, keep your baby's skin moisturized and consult your pediatrician for appropriate treatments, which may include medicated shampoos or topical treatments.

In summary, while your concerns are valid, many infants experience similar issues that can resolve with proper care and monitoring. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your pediatrician, who can provide tailored advice based on your baby's specific needs and symptoms. Regular check-ups will help ensure that any potential allergies or skin conditions are managed effectively. Remember, early intervention can make a significant difference in your child's health and comfort.

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