Allergies in Infants: Knowledge is Prevention

Allergies are the most common infection which every individual, including infants, suffer from in their life time. Infants are at a higher risk of developing allergies as they have an immune system which is still at the developmental stage.

*TIP* What you don’t know, however, is that infants are immune to the flu and common colds for the first two months because they still carry anti-bodies from their mother.

How do Allergies Occur?

Allergies normally occur when a person or child comes into contact with the allergen, thereby triggering the body's defence mechanism to release histamines and other chemicals which help the body to fight against it.

These released chemicals irritate the body and produce symptoms like running nose, skin rashes, sneezing, fever, etc. Most of these symptoms produced due allergies are mild in nature and subside on their own while some are life -threatening and may require immediate medical attention. For example, anaphylactic shock. This is diagnosed by difficulty breathing and swelling of extremities or the area around infection.

Some allergic reactions do not occur immediately after the first exposure to the allergen. For an allergen to cause any reaction, the infant needs to reach a specific threshold. Once the threshold is reached, the infant may develop allergies to certain allergens. There are the few that will show an instant breakout within the first few minutes of contact.

*TIP* Many infants have allergies to certain formulas; therefore it is best that if your child is throwing up their milk, try a new one. Many also have an intolerance to iron at this age, and since it can also bind them up, try a formula that does not have iron in it.

Protecting Infants from Allergens:

Dust mites, Pollen, Molds and Pet Dander are the common culprits causing allergies. These allergens are common present in our surrounding and the only way to prevent them is by maintaining your surroundings and keeping them clean.

Dust mites usually thrive in fabrics and carpets. Infants are exposed to dust mites in the bedroom when they come in contact with the fabrics used in mattresses and pillows.

Pet dander can be kept away by giving your pet frequent wash and keeping the pet away from the infant and the furniture in her room.

Pollens are almost unavoidable allergens. This can be kept at bay either keeping your child indoors (which is close to impossible) and if you happen to take your infant outdoors ensure that you bathe her and wash her hair to remove any airborne allergens.

Mold thrives best in wet places like bathrooms or any other places where there is tendency of water getting accumulated. Use of a dehumidifier and mold-inhibiting disinfectants are ways through which one can keep the molds away.

Detecting allergies in Infants:

As there several factors causing allergies, it is always not possible to detect the exact cause of allergies. Medical tests can be of help in some cases of allergic reactions.

Medical treatment for Allergies:

Unfortunately, unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor, there are no prescription medications safe for your infant. For more information, consult your doctor.