Asthma and Croup
If your baby is having difficulty breathing or is turning blue.
Call an ambulance. Do not delay. Dial 111 (New Zealand only)
Medication is often required. Follow your doctor’s advice.
Join your local allergy or asthma support group.
Learn ways to improve the environment which may be making the situation worse.
Colic
If your baby is crying for long periods, talk to your doctor or Plunket nurse.
Babies may pull their legs up and stiffen their abdomen. This is likely caused from cramps which may mean they are having trouble digesting their food.
Bottle feeding
Your baby may be reacting to the cow’s milk formula.
Your baby may be reacting to the goat’s milk formula because the protein is similar to cow’s.
Try a soy formula.
Allergy to soy is becoming more common so you may want to try one of the hydrolysed formulas available from your doctor.
Breastfeeding
Your baby may be sensitive to something you are eating or drinking.
You could try eliminating a food to see if that helps.
Don’t eliminate too many foods from your diet while breastfeeding.
Eczema
If the eczema becomes infected, you must see your doctor.
How can I tell if my eczema is infected? What are the signs?
Eczema has a number of causes:
Your breastfeeding baby may be sensitive to something you are eating or drinking.
Your baby may be sensitive to a food s/he is eating or drinking.
Your baby may be sensitive to a soap, lotion, ointment, or detergent you are using.
Over time babies can react to lotions/ointments.
Ask your doctor if you can try a different lotion/ointment.
Never stop the treatment your doctor has prescribed without talking to your doctor first.
Ask your doctor for skin tests. RAST tests may also be done. This may identify the cause of the eczema.
Breastfeeding - Try eliminating a food to see if that helps.
Don't eliminate too many foods while you are breastfeeding.
Bottle feeding
Your baby may be reacting to the cow’s milk formula.
Your baby may be reacting to the goat’s milk formula because the protein is similar to cow’s.
Try a soy formula.
Allergy to soy is becoming more common so you may want to use one of the hydrolysed formulas available from your doctor.