What Are the Treatments for Infant Allergy Symptoms?

Allergy is a disorder of the body's immune system. The immune system in response to some seemingly harmless foreign substances causes an exaggerated reaction triggered by hypersensitivity to those substances. While the main symptom in infants for allergies seems to be uncontrolled crying, it is very essential to detect and treat the allergies accurately. This guide lists some of the common allergies and their treatments. Infant allergies may be placed under four broad categories.

Nasal Allergies

• Symptoms: Itchy or running nose, nasal congestion, sneezing and watery or itchy eyes.
  Causes: Dust mites, animal dander and mold may be some of the causes of infant nasal allergies. Tobacco smoke is also likely to cause allergies in infants.
  Treatment: Common nasal allergies can be treated with over-the-counter decongestants and antihistamines. For some infants, nasal sprays are also prescribed to treat nasal allergies. In case of severe symptoms like asthma, a nasal steroid may be deemed necessary.
  Side effects: With most of these medications, a light sedation or sleepiness may occur. Mild nasal irritation and nosebleeds may occur from nasal sprays. Some data suggest that nasal steroids may slow growth in some children. It is advised that parents discuss the potential side effects with the child's pediatrician before treatment.

Food Allergies

• Symptoms: Food allergies may also appear as a histamine reaction in the form of nasal congestion. Other symptoms include rashes, eczema, swelling of the face, gas, bloating of the stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, hives or constipation.
  Causes: Food allergy is the most common allergy in infants. Even infants that are exclusively breast-fed may have reactions due to something in the mother's diet. Bovine dairy products are a common cause. Eggs, peanuts, milk, wheat, walnuts, soy, fish and shellfish cause a high percentage of all allergies.
  Treatment: The best treatment is avoidance. If formula feeding, parents may be advised to change formulas. If breast feeding, the mother needs to give up the offending food to prevent allergic reactions. In any case, parents should consult with a doctor to come up with an action plan. The most common treatment for food allergies is the use of an epinephrine auto-injector. These devices look like markers and automatically administer the right dose to stop the allergic reaction. In case of severe reactions like swelling of the face, trouble breathing or severe vomiting and/or diarrhea; it is advisable to call 911 right away.
  Side effects: Mild trembling, shortness of breath or fast pounding of the heart may occur. The infant may feel cold and have some mild trembling. Nausea and dry throat are common, too.

Environmental Allergies

• Symptoms: Hives, redness, bumps or rashes, swelling in some parts of the body including the mouth or tongue, breathing difficulty, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
  Causes: Insect poison may be cause of an allergic reaction. One common cause is a bee sting. Chemicals in some medicines can cause infant allergies.
  Treatment: In the case of a bee sting, the first step should be to scrape on the skin to gently but hastily remove the stinger. Apply something cool on the affected area. Calamine lotion or a paste of baking soda and water helps, too. Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can help ease the pain. If severe reaction occurs, like breathing difficulties, swelling of the face, or dizziness and fainting, consult a doctor immediately. Epinephrine may be prescribed.
  Side effects: Distress and crying may be the only side effect. Side effects may result from the epinephrine.

Anaphylaxis

• Symptoms: Respiratory difficulties, unconsciousness or fainting, swelling of the face, tongue, throat and airways, called angiodema (this can be life threatening).
  Causes: Sensitivity to a certain allergen may result in the infant's airways closing or effects on the cardiovascular system.
  Treatment: Call 911. It is advisable to call paramedics and an ambulance. Primary treatment includes administering epinephrine. Depending on the nature of symptoms, intravenous corticosteroids or bronchodilator drugs may be used.

Conclusion

• It is important to stay aware and cautious of allergies in infants. It is wise to note that the tendency to allergies is often inherited. If it is known that an infant has allergies, it is important for the parents to stay vigilant and prepared. If the allergens have been established, avoid use of them. Make sure to read labels with extra caution. With breast-feeding infants, the mother must avoid all allergens. Prevention is always better than the cure.