Lactose Intolerance In Babies
Facts About Lactose Intolerance in Babies
Lactose intolerance in babies is not all that uncommon. Many new mothers worry that their babies may be lactose intolerant and wonder how they will recognize this. There are some definitely signs to look for that will indicate if a baby is indeed lactose intolerant.
When someone is lactose intolerant what is happening is that their body is not digesting the lactose properly; when there is lactose intolerance in babies one of the symptoms that often accompanies this condition is stomach pain, as well as possible diarrhea. With some babies there may also be some vomiting, but this isn’t always the case.
If a child is lactose intolerant there will usually be some symptoms apparent within about a half hour to three hours after they have had milk, or some other type of dairy product. Due to the fact that there are other medical conditions that can also lead to the same symptoms, it is best to let your doctor diagnose your baby.
Some of the symptoms that may indicate lactose intolerance in babies include,
A Fussy Baby - There are plenty of things that can cause a baby to be fussy, but often it could be what the baby is eating, especially if they display this behavior soon after feedings. As lactose intolerance causes stomach pain, you may notice that your baby is fussier than normal, crying as if in pain, and doing a lot of body twisting. Another sign may be waking up and crying out in pain.
Signs of Indigestion – Lactose intolerance in babies is basically indigestion so your baby may show signs of digestion problems, including diarrhea, vomiting or spitting up, and just acting colicky. If your baby is spitting up more than normal or vomiting, in addition to having diarrhea it is a good idea to contact your baby’s doctor as soon as possible. Although this could be a symptom of lactose intolerance, there may also be another medical condition contributing to the illness. Even if it is just lactose intolerance, when a baby is vomiting and having diarrhea they are losing liquids and may become dehydrated.
Infections in the Ears – Although this is a fairly unknown symptom of lactose intolerance in babies it is not all that uncommon for babies that have this condition to develop ear infections. It can be very frustrating to know if there is something wrong with your baby or he or she is just being fussy, but a common method for a baby to let you know something is wrong is by pulling or hitting at the area of the body that has the pain. Often when a baby has ear infection you will notice that they are a lot fussier than normal, plus they will be pulling at their ear. If you suspect that your child has an ear infection you will have to contact your healthcare provider; at your doctor visit you can ask about the possibility of lactose intolerance.
Eczema – Even though Eczema isn’t as common a symptom as colic to indicate lactose intolerance in babies, it does occur frequently. If your baby develops Eczema you will notice areas of dry skin that may also have little white bumps. The skin may also develop a scale like feel to it. In extreme cases the area of skin that has the Eczema will become red and enflamed, and may even become infected. This condition is very uncomfortable for baby, but you can relieve this skin condition by using fragrance free moisturizers.
Lactose intolerance in babies is more common in children that are born premature, though it can occur with full term babies as well. If you suspect that your baby is lactose intolerant it is best to get a diagnosis from your doctor and advice on what to feed your baby.