Common Baby Allergies

If your baby suffers from upset stomach, runny nose, rash, or crankiness, then it could be more than just the common cold, it could be a signal that there is an allergy present. When these symptoms persist, you might have more than a fussy baby on your hands, you could have a very sensitive one.

Baby allergies are the result of their immune system trying to combat some type of perceived illness. It is not clear why the immune system reacts to a harmless substance in that way, but what is apparent is that it continues to cause a reaction each time the baby is exposed to it.

Babies, whose parents are allergy suffers, are more prone to having allergies. However, the allergens that affect the parent will not necessarily be the same ones that trigger a response in the baby. Common symptoms of baby allergies include, runny nose, rash, itchy eyes, diarrhea, sneezing, and eczema.

Food allergies are a common problem with babies. Foods that can trigger an allergy include cow's milk, wheat, soy and cheese. Symptoms range from mild to severe and can include hives, inflammation, and difficulty breathing. These signs can appear within a few minutes of eating a specific food, or they can take up to two hours to manifest. However, some symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea may be ongoing.

It is always recommended that a certified allergist be consulted in suspected cases of food allergy. An allergist will be able to determine the offending foods. This is very important, because babies sometimes do not show symptoms the first few times that they eat a particular food. The signs can occur much later. The rule of thumb is if your baby consistently exhibits symptoms within two hours of eating a particular food, then they should be taken to an allergist for testing.

Nasal allergies are also very common in babies. These can be triggered by dust mites, animal dander, and even perfume. Dust mites are very common in the home. They are extremely troublesome because they are near-invisible microscopic organisms. The fact that they feed on the skin cells that are shed by humans means they can be just about anywhere.

They inhabit warm places such as carpets, beds, and blankets, which are all items your baby will be in contact with at some time or another. It has been estimated that as much as 80% of all allergies are the result of sensitivity to dust mites.

Since pets are found in most American households, pet dander is another common cause of baby allergies. Pets are constantly shedding skin cells and it causes an allergic reaction in some babies. If you have pets around the home and your baby exhibits allergic reactions when they are near them, then animal dander might well be the reason.

Molds can also trigger baby allergies. If you have carpeting in your home then liquid spills will occur, and if the carpet is not cleaned regularly, then mold can build up quickly. Babies are very often left to play on the carpet, and as mold is very often airborne, they can be easily affected if they are sensitive to it.

If your baby shows any signs of an allergic reaction, then pay close attention to what they consume, and what they come in contact with. You should then consult a pediatric allergist, to discuss your concerns and have the necessary testing done.