Baby Allergy Symptoms
If you see a small red bump on your baby's skin or you hear him sniffling for more than a few days, you may be concerned that he is having an allergic reaction. You may also be frustrated because you can't tell whether your baby has a common rash, cold or perhaps an allergy. There are so many potential allergy triggers that it's important to be aware of some common telltale signs of an allergic reaction.
Hives
Hives, also known as urticaria, appear as an itchy rash resembling a cluster of mosquito bites on your baby's skin. These bumps often appear when your baby's skin has come into contact with a food or other substance to which she is allergic. While hives are typically harmless, they will likely feel very uncomfortable to your baby. If she cannot express her discomfort verbally, you may see her trying to scratch or rub against the hives to relieve the itch. Discuss potential antihistamine treatments with your pediatrician.
Sneezing and/or Runny, Stuffy Nose
While sneezing, nasal congestion and a runny nose are also symptoms of the common cold, a long-lasting watery nasal drip is often a sign of allergies. Your baby will likely try to wipe his nose in an upward motion, which sometimes causes a crease to form on the top of his nose. If your baby's nose is persistently runny and stuffy, he may spend more time breathing from his mouth. A saline rinse may help to keep your baby more comfortable.
Itchy, Watery Eyes
While pink eye (conjunctivitis) can be spread by direct contact with an affected person, it can also be caused by allergies. Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious. While it often causes the eyes to become red and watery, it has the additional symptom of itchiness and potentially dark circles around the eyes. Your pediatrician should be the one to confirm the cause of the pink eye and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Swelling
This common allergy-induced symptom can become very serious if it is not noticed or addressed immediately because it can lead to throat swelling and interfere with your baby's ability to breathe. If your baby is experiencing swelling on her face, notably around her eyes and mouth, contact your pediatrician soon as possible. In the mean time, watch your baby's breathing patterns. If it appears that your baby is having any trouble breathing, take her to the emergency room immediately.
Irritable Stomach
Gas, bloating, vomiting and diarrhea can be caused by illness or allergies. Often, an allergy is responsible for these symptoms if two or more of them occur simultaneously and for more than 8 to 10 days. The stomach flu or a common cold will likely resolve sooner than an allergic reaction.
A Warning About Anaphylaxis
Anaphylaxis, or anyaphylactic shock, is a rare but very serious allergic reaction. While symptoms vary from person to person, the most common symptoms of anaphylaxis are throat swelling, severely itchy skin, rapidly progressing hives, coughing, sneezing, anxiety, nausea, upset stomach, lowered blood pressure, dizziness and fainting. If you suspect your baby is experiencing anaphylaxis, call 911 immediately. Be sure to mention that you think your baby is experiencing anaphylaxis so that the EMTs can come immediately, prepared with epinephrine. You may need to get a prescription to have epinephrine on hand in the future to administer immediately if and when your baby has another reaction.
Tips
The eight most common food allergy triggers are cow's milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts (such as walnuts and pecans), fish and shellfish.
Three common air transmitted allergies are animal dander, dust mites and mold.
If you suspect your baby is suffering from an allergy, keep an eye on what your baby has consumed and been in contact with over the past few days. Keep in mind these common triggers and discuss your concerns to your pediatrician.
