How to Tell if a Baby is Allergic to Formula
Formula can be hard to process and take a toll on a baby's sensitive digestive system, so it's not unusual for a baby to spit up or to be occasionally fussy after they drink his formula. For this reason, it can often be difficult to tell the difference between normal feeding responses and formula allergies.
Follow a few steps to determine if your baby could be allergic to his formula.
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Instructions
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Stick with one formula for awhile. It can be hard to pinpoint an allergy if you are constantly switching brands of formula.
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Look for changes in your baby's skin. Many formula allergies manifest themselves as rashes, hives or eczema. Skin changes can be acute or can be all over the body.
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Notice your baby's demeanor while eating. A baby that becomes extremely fussy or gassy during feedings may have a sensitivity or allergy to her formula.
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Look for abnormal amounts of spit up or vomiting. Vomiting and excessive spitting up can indicate an allergy.
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Examine your baby's bottom. A circular rash around your baby's anus can be an indicator of an allergy.
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Pay attention to your baby's bowel movements. A significant change in bowel movements can be a sign your baby is having issues with his formula.
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Look for swelling of the tounge, face or mouth. In extreme allergies, swelling can occur and can cause a baby to have difficulty breathing.
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Tips & Warnings
Talk to your doctor before switching formulas. Breast-feeding for the first six months can decrease the likelihood of allergies. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned your baby may have an allergy to formula.
Some babies are allergic to formula because they are allergic to a protein in cow's milk that is present in milk-based formula. Babies can also be lactose intolerant because they don't have enough of the enzymes needed to break down lactose, a component in milk that it also in milk-based formula. When a baby is allergic to a milk-based formula, switching to a soy-based formula can often remedy the situation.
Other babies can have a soy allergy and soy-based formulas can cause an allergic reaction. Switching to a milk-based formula can often remedy the situation.
Contact your health care provider if your baby is having issues with formula.
Call emergency services if your baby is having a severe reaction.
References
- Photo Credit newborn image by Valentin Mosichev from Fotolia.com
