Should I Switch My Baby's Formula Due to Allergies? - Pediatrics

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Should I change the formula?


Hello, Director Wang:
Baby was born on January 1, 2007, and has been tested for allergic constitution, with the report confirming the allergy.
However, I have not given the baby hydrolyzed protein formula; instead, I have been giving him regular formula (New Angel Baby Formula).
Could this be related? The baby has developed small bumps on his face, chest (above the chest), back, and thighs (where the diaper is).
Could this be caused by the formula? Should I switch to hydrolyzed protein formula for the baby?
The baby is not drinking breast milk and sometimes drinks less than 150CC a day, which has been the case for the past week or two.
Previously, he would drink up to 180CC every three to five hours, but now he refuses to drink when it's time.
Should I change the formula, or is this a phase of milk aversion? The baby was born weighing 4200 grams and measuring 57 cm, and now he weighs 6.8 kg and measures 62.5 cm.

Yaping, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/03/21

Dr. Wang Jiayi reply Pediatrics


Hello, Yaping:
1.
Your baby is currently in the 90-95th percentile for weight and the 10-25th percentile for height, both of which are within the normal range.
2.
It is not possible to determine if your baby has an allergic constitution at birth, so any testing should be considered as a reference.
3.
Unless advised by a physician due to special circumstances, it is recommended that infants consume breast milk or standard formula rather than specialized formula.
4.
Infants may experience various normal rashes or abnormal skin issues, which should be diagnosed by a pediatrician or dermatologist through a physical examination.
5.
Infants' feeding habits can sometimes be unstable.
It is important to monitor for signs of dehydration and malnutrition.
Based on your description, it seems to still be within the normal range.
The Pediatrics Department at Hualien Hospital cares about you!

Reply Date: 2007/03/21

More Info


When considering whether to switch your baby's formula due to allergies, it's important to understand the nature of the allergies and the symptoms your baby is experiencing. From your description, it seems that your baby has been diagnosed with an allergic predisposition, and you have noticed skin reactions such as bumps on the face, chest, back, and thighs. These symptoms could potentially be related to the formula being used, especially if it contains common allergens like cow's milk protein.

In infants with a confirmed allergy to cow's milk protein, it is often recommended to switch to a hydrolyzed formula. Hydrolyzed formulas contain proteins that have been broken down into smaller pieces, making them less likely to trigger an allergic reaction. If your baby is showing signs of an allergic reaction, such as skin rashes or gastrointestinal symptoms, it may be prudent to consult with a pediatrician or an allergist. They can provide guidance on whether a hydrolyzed formula is appropriate for your baby and help you monitor any changes in symptoms after switching.

It's also worth noting that infants can go through phases of decreased appetite or "feeding aversion," which may be temporary. If your baby is drinking significantly less formula than before, it could be due to a variety of factors, including developmental changes or teething discomfort. However, if you suspect that the current formula is causing allergic reactions, it is essential to address this promptly.

In terms of your baby's growth, it seems that your baby is growing well, but any concerns about weight gain or feeding should be discussed with a healthcare provider. They can assess your baby's growth trajectory and overall health to determine if any interventions are necessary.

In summary, if you suspect that your baby's formula is causing allergic reactions, it may be wise to switch to a hydrolyzed formula after consulting with a healthcare professional. They can provide tailored advice based on your baby's specific needs and health status. Additionally, monitoring your baby's feeding habits and growth is crucial, and any significant changes should be communicated to your pediatrician for further evaluation.

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