Nappy Rash Due to Food Allergy [And you blamed the diaper]

Taking care of a baby is exciting. You get a lot of precious moments with your little one filled with its babbles. 

But it also comes with its challenges. One of those challenges is diaper rash.

Everyone tells you to be careful about what you feed the baby. But did you know how food allergies lead to your baby’s diaper rash?

In this article, you’ll find out what is the relationship between food allergies and nappy rashes. With this information, you’ll be able to keep your baby’s buttocks safe.

Do Food Allergies Cause Diaper Rash?

Food allergies do cause diaper rash in babies. Diaper rash happens in babies when they start eating solid foods.

Their digestive systems change the frequency of their bowel movements and this leads to the growth of a diaper rash. If your child is older than 9 months, the chances of a nappy rash are higher.

Also Read: Tips to Prevent Diaper Rash

Which Foods Cause Diaper Rash in Babies?

According to Sandra Hong, MD, children develop irritation in the buttocks due to food allergies, because of the frequent diaper changes and wipes.

Citrus fruits, tomatoes, strawberries, and tomato-based products create a red ring around the mouth and the anus of the baby. Berries can also have a similar effect.

What is the best treatment for this reaction?

The best solution for a food allergy in babies because of acidic fruits is applying a diaper cream containing zinc.

Apart from that, changing the diaper often, using a strong absorbent and keeping the area will treat the diaper rash faster.

You’ll need to consult with your pediatrician to identify the allergic foods for your baby. Further exposure to this food can be dangerous.

What are the Other Symptoms of Food Allergies in Babies?

Diaper rash can be due to many other reasons (long durations of wet diapers, infrequent changes, etc.). But if it accompanies any of the following symptoms, it could be a food allergy:

• Development of red and itchy welts on the baby’s skin (Hives)
• Swelling of lip, tongue or face
• Difficulty in breathing
• Wheezing
• Unconsciousness
• Skin flushing

If you see any of these symptoms in your baby, be alert. It could be a serious food allergy and your baby might need treatment.

Along with these symptoms, if your baby is vomiting or is having diarrhea after eating, you should get help. Contact the pediatrician later.

How to Prevent Food Allergies in Babies?

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests parents feed the baby potential allergens early. This way, you’ll reduce the risk of allergy-development later on.

They also recommend you to introduce peanuts to babies with the highest risk around the age of 4 to 6 months. Babies with eczema and/ or egg allergies fall in this category.

Introduce the 8 allergens on a gradual basis, that is, one-by-one. You’ll be able to identify the allergies faster and easier this way.

Conclusion

The diaper isn’t always the culprit. The food your baby ate can also cause rashes. It’s important that you carefully examine your baby’s eating habits and diet at this stage.

Food allergies can be risky and consulting with a pediatrician would be the best.

Does your baby have any food allergies? How did you find out? Share your thoughts.