Almost all babies are fussy at times, however excessive fussiness could be due to formula allergy. The most common allergy in babies is cow milk which is the basis of most commercial  baby formulas. A milk allergy is when the immune system mistakenly sees milk protein as something the body needs to fight off. It then sets of an allergic reaction which causes  lot of symptoms .
 

 

What are the signs formula allergy in babies?

 
Some of the common signs of formula allergy in babies include the following :

• fussiness and irritability
• skin rash such as eczema
• hives
• colic
• loose or foul-smelling stool
• gagging and spitting up
• refusing to eat food
• excessively gassy
• red ring around the rectum that zinc oxide preparation won’t clear up

 
Symptoms may come on quickly after feeding (rapid onset ) or in about 7 to 10 days after consuming cow milk ( slower onset ). Exclusively breastfed infants may also show symptoms if the mother ingests cow milk.

Most kids outgrow this form of food allergy by age 2 even though some babies never outgrow it.

In some severe cases, a potentially severe allergic reaction may occur ( anaphylaxis). However this is more common in other food allergies such as peanuts and tree nuts rather than formula.

Most babies who are allergic to cow milk are also allergic to soy based formula. One way to avoid this condition is to exclusively breastfeed your baby for 6 months . If you or your partner have a history of allergies in your family, ask your health care provider about good ways to help your baby avoid those allergens.

If your baby shows signs of formula allergy, consult your doctor first before switching to another formula.
 
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