How to treat an allergic reaction while breastfeeding?

Understanding Allergic Reactions While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a vital aspect of infant nutrition, but it can also raise concerns for mothers regarding potential allergic reactions in their babies. As a breastfeeding mother, it’s essential to understand how to manage allergies effectively while ensuring the health and safety of both you and your child.
Recognizing Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions in infants can manifest in various ways, including digestive issues like diarrhea, bloating, and fussiness, as well as skin reactions such as rashes and eczema. While human breast milk is generally safe and does not typically cause allergies, some babies may develop sensitivities to proteins that pass through breast milk from the mother’s diet. This can lead to discomfort for the infant, prompting mothers to seek solutions.
Immediate Steps to Take
If you suspect your baby is having an allergic reaction, the first step is to remain calm. Panicking can lead to hasty decisions that may not be in the best interest of you or your baby. Here are some effective strategies to manage the situation:
1. Identify Potential Allergens: Consider any recent changes in your diet. Common allergens include dairy, eggs, nuts, soy, and wheat. If you suspect a specific food, try eliminating it from your diet for a few days to see if your baby’s symptoms improve.
2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your baby’s reactions. If symptoms persist or worsen, it may be necessary to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
3. Home Remedies for Mild Reactions: For mild allergic reactions such as hives, there are several home treatments you can try. These may include applying cool compresses to the affected areas or using over-the-counter antihistamines, but always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Consulting Healthcare Professionals
If your baby exhibits severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or persistent vomiting, seek immediate medical attention. These could be signs of a serious allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, which requires urgent care.
Continuing Breastfeeding
One of the most significant concerns for breastfeeding mothers is whether they need to stop nursing if their baby has an allergic reaction. The good news is that you do not have to stop breastfeeding. Instead, by identifying and eliminating the offending food from your diet, you can continue to provide your baby with the benefits of breast milk while minimizing allergic reactions .
Conclusion
Managing allergic reactions while breastfeeding can be challenging, but with careful monitoring and dietary adjustments, many mothers can successfully navigate this issue. Always prioritize open communication with healthcare providers to ensure the best outcomes for both you and your baby. Remember, breastfeeding is not only a source of nutrition but also a way to strengthen the bond between mother and child, even in the face of allergies.

Why is Zyrtec not recommended while breastfeeding?

Zyrtec, although generally safe, is not recommended during breastfeeding because it passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Possible side effects on the baby include irritation or lethargy. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication while breastfeeding.

Can I pass my allergies to my baby through breastfeeding?

Food allergens in the mother’s diet can pass through into the breastmilk so a breastfed baby can have an allergic response or intolerance to something in the mother’s diet.

What to take for an allergic reaction while breastfeeding?

Non-sedating antihistamines are the preferred choice for a breastfeeding mother:

• Loratadine (Clarityn®) (Powell 2007, Hilbert 1997),
• Cetirizine (Zirtek®, BecoAllergy®, Piriteze®, Benadryl®) reaches low levels in breastmilk and is recommended by the British Society for Allergy and Clinical Immunology (Powell 2007)

What is the safest antihistamine while breastfeeding?

Cold and allergy meds that are safe while breastfeeding include: Cetirizine (Zyrtec) and loratadine (Claritin) are the recommended antihistamines when breastfeeding. Other antihistamines are also considered safe but do not have as much research to support this. These include Allegra and Xyzal.

What are the symptoms of lactation anaphylaxis?

Pruritis (itchy skin) Urticaria (hives) Shortness of breath, dyspnea (difficulty breathing) An acute, non-IgE mediated allergic reaction possibly triggered by the release of hormones during the milk ejection reflex (MER).

Is Benadryl ok while breastfeeding?

Taking Benadryl occasionally during breastfeeding is safe. However, taking Benadryl regularly or in large doses may cause side effects in a child who is breastfed. It may also reduce your milk supply. Antihistamines that cause less sleepiness are usually preferred over oral Benadryl while breastfeeding.

Is hydrocortisone cream safe for breastfeeding?

Hydrocortisone creams, ointments, sprays and suppositories for piles and itchy bottom can be used while breastfeeding, but try to only use them for a short time. It’s not known how much passes into breast milk, but it’s likely to be a tiny amount, and your baby will not be able to absorb much of it into their body.

What does an allergic reaction look like on a breastfed baby?

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.

What is the best natural antihistamine?

Top 8 natural antihistamines for allergies

• Vitamin C.
• Quercetin.
• Ceylon cinnamon.
• Butterbur.
• Probiotics.
• Black pepper extract.
• Berberine.
• Spirulina.

What does delayed anaphylaxis look like?

In rare cases, anaphylaxis may be delayed for hours. Signs and symptoms include: Skin reactions, including hives and itching and flushed or pale skin. Low blood pressure (hypotension)