If you suspect that your baby might be allergic to something in your breast milk, it’s important to observe their behavior and look for any signs or symptoms. Here are some steps you can take to determine if your baby has an allergy.
- Observe your baby’s behavior: Watch for any unusual changes in baby’s behavior after feeding. Look for signs such as excessive fussiness, colic-like symptoms, frequent crying, irritability, or difficulty sleeping.
- Check for physical symptoms: Check if your baby experiences any physical symptoms such as skin rashes, hives, eczema, persistent diaper rash, or nasal congestion. These can be indications of an allergic reaction.
- Monitor bowel movements: Pay attention to your baby’s bowel movements. If they have frequent loose stools, diarrhea, blood in the stool, or if they show signs of discomfort during bowel movements, it could be a sign of an allergy.
- Look for respiratory issues: Notice if your baby develops wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing after feedings. These respiratory symptoms can be related to an allergic reaction.
- Consult a healthcare professional: If you suspect your baby has an allergy, it’s essential to consult your pediatrician or an allergist. They will be able to assess the situation and provide guidance specific to your baby’s needs.
To make adjustments to your breastfeeding routine if your baby is allergic to something in your breast milk, consider the following:
- Identify potential triggers: Work with your healthcare professional to identify potential allergens in your diet that might be causing the allergic reactions in your baby. Common culprits include cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, and fish.
- Elimination diet: Under the guidance of a healthcare professional, you may need to eliminate the suspected allergen from your diet for a period of time to observe any changes in your baby’s symptoms. This process usually requires careful monitoring and maintaining a detailed food diary.
- Reintroduction and monitoring: After a period of elimination, your healthcare professional may recommend gradually reintroducing the suspected allergen into your diet. Observe your baby’s response to see if the symptoms recur. This can help determine if the allergen is causing the reaction.
- Consult a lactation specialist: Consider consulting a lactation specialist who can provide guidance and support during this process. They can help you maintain a balanced diet while avoiding specific allergens and suggest alternatives to ensure proper nutrition for both you and your baby.
Pediatric Partners of Augusta is proud to offer a lactation specialist and expert advice for new mothers and their babies at our Bella Bambino clinic. We provide a soothing, nurturing environment in which to be examined and receive the best prenatal and postpartum care possible. Our lactation consultant would be happy to discuss your concerns.
){kind=link}