Allergic reactions in infants

General allergic reactions in infants: A guide for parents

The infant's immune system is immature and is only "learning" to respond to the surrounding world. Therefore, allergic reactions in children in the first months of life are a common, though concerning, phenomenon for parents. It is important to understand that most skin problems at this age are not true allergies, but physiological skin adaptation, such as newborn acne.

Why are infants prone to reactions?

• Immaturity of the gut barrier: The intestinal walls are more permeable, allowing larger protein molecules (potential allergens) to enter the bloodstream.
• Immaturity of the skin barrier: The infant's thin and delicate skin is more vulnerable to external irritants.

Main types of allergic manifestations in infants

• Food allergies: The most common cause of true allergies at this age.
• Contact reactions: To cosmetics, fabrics or laundry detergents.
• Respiratory allergies: A rare occurrence at this age, but possible.

Most often the reaction appears on the skin as eczema or hives. Any rash in an infant, especially if accompanied by a worsening of the overall condition, requires a pediatrician's consultation. Read about other types of rashes in our blog "Rash in infants".