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Why does my baby have red blotches when breastfeeding?

Understanding Red Blotches on Your Baby’s Face During Breastfeeding
For many new parents, witnessing their baby develop red blotches on their face while breastfeeding can be a concerning experience. However, this phenomenon is often quite common and can be attributed to several benign factors.
Increased Blood Flow
One of the primary reasons for the appearance of red blotches is the increased blood flow to the face during breastfeeding. As the baby suckles, the physical act stimulates circulation, leading to a temporary flush or redness on the skin. This is a normal physiological response and typically resolves shortly after feeding.
Heat Rash
Another frequent cause of red blotches is heat rash, which can occur if the baby becomes overheated during feeding. Babies are particularly sensitive to temperature changes, and if they are bundled up too warmly or if the environment is hot, their sweat glands can become blocked. This blockage results in small red spots or blotches on the skin. Ensuring a comfortable feeding environment can help mitigate this issue.
Allergic Reactions
In some cases, red blotches may indicate an allergic reaction. If your baby has a food allergy, they might develop rashes or hives on their face or other areas of the body during or after breastfeeding. Common allergens include milk, eggs, and peanuts. If you suspect an allergy, it’s crucial to consult a pediatrician for further evaluation.
Blocked Nasal Passages
A blocked nose can also contribute to facial redness during breastfeeding. When babies have difficulty breathing through their noses, they may become distressed, leading to increased blood flow and redness in the face. Keeping the baby’s nasal passages clear can help alleviate this issue.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While most causes of red blotches are harmless, it’s essential to monitor your baby for any additional symptoms. If the redness persists, is accompanied by swelling, or if your baby shows signs of discomfort, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance and ensure that there are no underlying health concerns.
In summary, while red blotches on your baby’s face during breastfeeding can be alarming, they are often a normal response to feeding, heat, or minor irritations. Understanding these causes can help ease parental worries and ensure a more comfortable feeding experience for both mother and baby.

What does a milk sensitivity rash look like?

Symptoms that can appear within minutes of having a small amount of milk include: raised red bumps of skin – hives (urticaria) itchy, red, weeping or crusty rash of the skin – dermatitis or eczema. swelling of the face.

How to tell if baby is allergic to breast milk?

Symptoms of dairy allergy in breastfed babies
Some of the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction include: Hives or skin rash. Nausea or vomiting. Abdominal pain.

How to know if a breastfed baby has a dairy allergy?

Common symptoms may include:

  • Hives.
  • Swelling under the skin, especially around the eyes or mouth.
  • Swelling of the tongue or throat.
  • Wheezing or respiratory distress.
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Vomiting.

Why does my baby go blotchy when drinking milk?

Hives (urticaria)
If your baby gets urticaria during feeding, the condition may be triggered by something they’ve had to eat or drink. The most common foods are egg and milk, but many other foods can sometimes be the cause. The urticaria rash is usually short-lived and can be controlled with antihistamines.

Why does my baby get red blotches when eating?

One of the most common signs your baby may have a food allergy is a rash that appears shortly after eating the offending food. It is often the first symptom to appear, the most common symptom of a food allergy, and can appear anywhere on the skin. A food allergy often presents itself in the form of hives.

What does milk eczema look like?

Rashes are common in babies and young children, and they have many causes. Milk allergies are also common and cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Rapid allergic reactions to milk may cause skin symptoms, such as itchy, raised, and red or discolored bumps.

What does it look like if baby is allergic to breast milk?

Even a baby who has never been formula fed, and has never had any food besides breast milk may show signs of food allergy including: diarrhea, bloody stools, vomiting, colic, eczema, constipation and poor growth.

Why does my baby get red blotches while breastfeeding?

Food allergies affect about 7.6% of children in the United States. The most common symptoms of an allergy in breastfed infants are eczema (a scaly, red skin rash) and bloody stool (with no other signs of illness).

Why does my baby get blotchy when he eats?

One of the most common signs your baby may have a food allergy is a rash that appears shortly after eating the offending food. It is often the first symptom to appear, the most common symptom of a food allergy, and can appear anywhere on the skin.

Why does my newborn have red blotches?

More than 50 percent of babies get a rash called erythema toxicum. It starts on the second or third day of life. It’s a harmless baby rash that doesn’t need to be seen. The rash is made up red blotches.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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