Infant Allergy Treatment

Any type of health concern is frightening to a parent of a newborn. Allergic reactions can be particularly frightening, but once you identify and treat them, your infant can find some relief.

What Are Allergies?

• According to Dr. Glade B. Curtis and Judith Schuler, authors of "Your Baby's First Year Week by Week," an allergy is "an acquired sensitivity to some substance that does not usually cause a reaction." The allergy can present as allergic rhinitis (what most refer to as "hay fever") or as a rash.

Symptoms

• Symptoms might include rashes; skin itchiness, dryness, or redness; problems breathing; a stuffed-up or runny nose; watering eyes; and/or sneezing.

Prevention

• The most important thing you can do is find out what causes your baby's allergic reaction. It might be a plant in your home or a type of lotion or soap you are using on the baby's clothes.

When to Call the Doctor

• Any symptoms of an allergy in an infant warrant a call to your doctor. If your baby has difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical care. If a rash does not go away or gets worse, call the pediatrician.

Medications

• Some over-the-counter medications can help allergic reactions, but be sure to talk to your pediatrician before giving your baby any medications.