How to Identify Allergies in Infants: A Guide for Parents

Q: How to Identify Allergies in Infants: A Guide for Parents

Hello： Allergic diseases are related to two factors： one is the allergic constitution, and the second is allergens. <br>The allergic constitution is hereditary; many scholars have statistically found that if one parent has an allergic constitution, the child has a one in four to

How to identify allergies in infants?

Hello, doctor.
My baby is 4 months old, and I would like to know how to determine if he is allergic.
I asked the hospital, and they said that allergy testing through blood work can only be done after the age of three.
However, some people say that allergic babies should drink water to prevent allergies from birth to three years old.
I have a history of allergies and asthma, but the father does not.
How can I assess whether my baby is allergic? Currently, he rubs his eyes frequently, has a lot of eye discharge, sometimes sneezes, and has nasal congestion while sleeping.
His skin turns red when using bath products.
Previously, he would often vomit after drinking S-26, but recently, after drinking water, he also vomits, though less than before, about 40cc.
His stools are watery, not just loose but more like water with some mucus.
Sometimes, his bowel movements are clear and watery.
What does this mean?

Youli dmm, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/02/04

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello: Allergic diseases are related to two factors: one is the allergic constitution, and the second is allergens.
The allergic constitution is hereditary; many scholars have statistically found that if one parent has an allergic constitution, the child has a one in four to one in three chance of also having an allergic constitution.
If both parents have an allergic constitution, the likelihood increases to as high as one in two, or even two in three.
Despite advancements in medicine, genetic factors remain difficult to alter; however, we can take preventive measures against allergens to reduce the occurrence of allergic diseases.

Allergic diseases in children manifest like a symphony, with different diseases appearing at various ages, and even the same disease can change as the child grows.
For example, atopic dermatitis in infants under one year old typically presents with red, eczema-like changes or yellow scaling on the forehead, cheeks, and neck.
Intense itching and scratching can lead to crusting.
During early childhood, rashes are mainly found on the extensor surfaces of the limbs.
After puberty, if atopic dermatitis persists, it tends to affect the flexural surfaces of the limbs, often accompanied by itching and dryness, with severe cases showing lichenification.
Most cases of allergic rhinitis begin to appear in toddlers aged two to three years, characterized by itchy nose, sneezing, runny nose, or nasal congestion upon waking in the morning.
The nasal discharge is clear and watery, with symptoms generally milder in the afternoon or evening, unless there is post-nasal drip or coexisting asthma, in which case coughing may occur.
Unlike a common cold, which presents with runny nose and cough at all times, allergic rhinitis typically does not lead to coughing, and nasal discharge tends to become thicker during recovery.
Asthma is characterized by nighttime and early morning coughing, which persists and does not resolve easily, with a more definitive diagnosis possible after the age of two.
Wheezing may be heard during breathing, and lung function may decline, impacting daily life.
Drinking hydrolyzed protein formula can reduce the occurrence of allergic diseases later on, although it may lead to softer stools.
However, if mucus is present, caution is advised for potential gastroenteritis, and follow-up with a pediatric gastroenterologist is recommended.

Wishing you health and happiness!
Dr.
Pei Ren-Sheng, Head of Pediatrics, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health.

Reply Date: 2010/02/04

More Info

Identifying allergies in infants can be a challenging task for parents, especially when the child is as young as four months old. Allergies can manifest in various ways, and understanding the signs and symptoms is crucial for early detection and management. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you identify potential allergies in your baby.

Common Signs of Allergies in Infants
1. Skin Reactions: One of the most common indicators of allergies in infants is skin reactions. This can include rashes, hives, or eczema. If you notice that your baby’s skin becomes red, itchy, or inflamed after exposure to certain products (like soaps, lotions, or laundry detergents), it may suggest an allergic reaction.

2. Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Allergies can also affect the digestive system. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gas can indicate a food allergy. In your case, you mentioned that your baby has been vomiting after drinking formula (S-26) and has had watery stools. This could be a sign of a food intolerance or allergy, particularly if the symptoms occur consistently after feeding.

3. Respiratory Symptoms: Allergies can lead to respiratory issues, which may present as nasal congestion, sneezing, or a runny nose. You mentioned that your baby has nasal congestion and sometimes snores during sleep, which could indicate an allergic response, possibly to environmental allergens like dust mites or pet dander.

4. Eye Symptoms: Allergies can also cause eye-related symptoms, such as watery eyes or redness. If your baby is frequently rubbing their eyes and has discharge, this could be a sign of allergic conjunctivitis.

Steps to Identify Allergies
1. Keep a Symptom Diary: Document any symptoms your baby experiences, including when they occur and what they were exposed to at the time. This can help you identify patterns and potential triggers.

2. Consult with a Pediatrician: Since you are concerned about your baby’s symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a pediatrician. They can provide guidance on whether to pursue allergy testing and what steps to take next. While it’s true that blood tests for allergies are often not performed until children are older, your pediatrician may recommend other methods of assessment.

3. Trial Elimination Diet: If you suspect a food allergy, your doctor may suggest an elimination diet. This involves removing potential allergens from your baby’s diet (such as dairy, soy, or wheat) and then gradually reintroducing them one at a time to see if symptoms reappear.

4. Monitor Environmental Factors: Since you mentioned a family history of allergies and asthma, it’s important to monitor your home environment. Reducing exposure to common allergens (like dust, pollen, and pet dander) can help alleviate symptoms. Consider using hypoallergenic products and maintaining a clean living space.

5. Hydration and Nutrition: You mentioned giving your baby a specific formula (water解) and observing changes in bowel movements. It’s crucial to ensure that your baby is well-hydrated and receiving adequate nutrition. If your baby continues to have watery stools, it may be necessary to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if the formula is suitable or if an alternative is needed.

Conclusion
Identifying allergies in infants requires careful observation and communication with healthcare professionals. While some symptoms may be indicative of allergies, they can also overlap with other conditions. Therefore, it’s essential to work closely with your pediatrician to determine the best course of action for your baby’s health. Early identification and management of allergies can significantly improve your child’s quality of life and prevent potential complications in the future.

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