What symptoms suggest that a baby may have a breast milk allergy?
1. Eczema: If a baby develops eczema, is it because they are too hot? Or is it a skin condition? New moms shouldn't panic and immediately remove clothing or apply ointments. If the baby develops eczema within the first month, moms can determine that this is likely a symptom of an allergy.
2. Diarrhea: If a baby consistently has diarrhea, with 8-10 bowel movements a day, and sometimes even blood in their stool, this could be an allergic reaction.
3. Constipation: If a baby is not eating enough, no matter how much moms try to "entice" them, and it seems like they haven't had a bowel movement in a while, their appetite may not be good due to an allergy.
4. Crying and fussiness: If a baby cries during the day and night, and seems restless, there must be a reason behind it. Babies don't cry for no reason, so it's important to consider whether it could be caused by a breast milk allergy.
5. Hiccups, flatulence, and spitting up: If a baby is constantly hiccuping and passing gas, don't think it's just a cute little thing they do. Abnormal physiological signs in babies usually have underlying reasons. If the baby also spits up, it's very likely due to an allergy.
Note: Breast milk allergy is sometimes misdiagnosed as lactose intolerance, which can delay the baby's recovery. If a baby has frequent diarrhea, moms should promptly change their diapers. Otherwise, it could lead to diaper rash or even local infection.
Three tips for new moms dealing with breast milk allergy
Tip 1: Change the diet. If the baby is just not adapting well to the mother's "flavor," the solution is simple. Moms can change their diet! By gradually eliminating foods that contain cow's milk protein, moms can often identify the allergens in their diet.
Tip 2: Combination feeding. If the baby's allergic symptoms are not too severe, it's not necessary to completely eliminate breastfeeding. In fact, a combination of breast milk and formula can be tried, as breast milk is the most beneficial food for babies. However, the choice of formula is important and a "low allergen formula" should be chosen. As the baby grows older, a gradual transition to regular formula can be attempted.
Tip 3: "Desensitization" feeding. If the baby has severe allergic symptoms, especially if diagnosed with cow's milk protein allergy, it's time for "desensitization." In simpler terms, a "hypoallergenic formula" can be chosen. Give the baby this formula for 4-8 weeks. If there is improvement in the allergy, gradually transition to a partially hydrolyzed formula with a prebiotic combination. After 4-12 weeks, gradually transition to a partially hydrolyzed formula with a prebiotic combination.
