

Some other signs of allergy in a baby are as follows:
- Colic and pain, difficult digestion, arching back
- Dark circles under the eyes, puffy eyes
- Constant ear infections
- Vomiting or posseting (being sick)
- Diarrhoea
- Bloated, or distended stomach
- Eczema or a red rash on the skin
- Difficulty breathing
- Presence of mucous, when there is no illness

The natural approach to treating allergy in babies starts with their immune system. The immune system in babies with allergies is underactive and needs a bit of help to balance it and correct its’ function. This can be achieved using probiotics which ensure the correct microbial flora in the child’s gastrointestinal system.
The next step is specific vitamin and mineral supplementation to gently assist the body to overcome these early signs of allergy and recover. Particular supplements will be chosen depending on the child’s presentation and diet, or maternal diet. If the allergy is atopic dermatitis then a herbal cream is made up to apply topically.
Finally, homoeopathics may be used to assist any discomfort the child may be having such as itchy red skin, pain, colic, irritability, nightmares, insomnia etc.
The natural approach works by gradually building the baby, or child’s natural immunologic ability, from several angles ( immune, vitamin/mineral deficiency, mental/emotional) so that the body can hopefully eradicate the symptoms altogether or at least reduce the severity and frequency of attacks.
Treating babies and children is such a joy, because they are so vital and responsive to treatment. Their bodies know what to do, we just need to provide them with a few of the raw materials, and they will heal themselves!
For further information; http://www.allergy.org.au/
(Australasian society for clinical immunology and allergy. This site has downloadable action plans for asthma, information about allergies and strategies to minimize their effect on health)