Will my baby have the same allergies as me?

7th December 2023

Will my baby have the same allergies as me?

Navigating life with allergies, from meticulous label-reading to pre-checking restaurant menus, becomes a well-honed skill. As an expectant mother, the question naturally arises: “Will my baby have the same allergies as me?” It’s a common concern among moms-to-be, which can feel worrying. 

We wanted to give you some peace of mind that it doesn’t have to feel that way. 

The reality is that allergies can have the potential families. If you’ve been careful to avoid certain things to stay allergy-free, you might be wondering if your little one will face the same challenges.

The honest answer is perhaps…but there’s no real hard or fast rule to say they will either way. It depends on two major factors.

Nature

Understanding allergies and how they’re passed down is like a family recipe. Your genes are the ingredients, and yes, they play a part. If one parent has allergies, there’s a higher chance your baby child might, too, and it’s even higher if both you and your partner have them. But it’s not a guarantee. While genes play a significant role, they’re not the only influence factor as to whether or not your baby will have allergies. 

Nurture

The environment your baby grows up in matters, too. Exposure to allergens can either build up protection, making allergies less severe or delayed or rendering them more sensitive later on. It’s a delicate dance between genetics and surroundings.

What does this mean for you as a parent? 

For parents, it’s a balancing act. While you can’t predict allergies, taking a test to identify potential triggers can provide peace of mind. Raising your child while being mindful of signs of allergies, especially in the early years, is a proactive approach. If allergies do emerge, it’s not anyone’s fault; it’s the result of the intricate interplay between nature and nurture.

Signs your baby might have an allergy 

Any child can develop allergies at any time, whether you or your partner have them or not. Sometimes, they’re just fleeting as your little one is growing. Cows’ milk, for example, is something a high percentage of infants are allergic to. Over 90% of children will become tolerant of milk by age 6.

The best you can do to manage symptoms is first to be aware of them:

• hives or rashes
• itching
• wheezing or shortness of breath
• red, itchy, and/or watery eyes
• coughing and/or wheezing
• runny nose
• sneezing

If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to take action. By taking a test, you can figure out precisely what might be causing the issues, and with guidance, you’ll have an action plan to help you manage the symptoms. Armed with this info, you can create a home that’s comfy and safe for your little one.

As you step into this journey of parenthood, know that you and your child, with a bit of help from our in-house paediatrician, will figure it out together. Many parents fear the process of diagnosis and worry about what comes next. 

Your concerns about your baby’s health are entirely valid, but facing allergies with infants isn’t as daunting as it seems. At our London-based allergy and immunology centre, we understand that the well-being of your baby is your top priority. Our experienced paediatrician is here to provide compassionate support and guidance. If you suspect your baby has a cow’s milk allergy or if you’re unsure about the symptoms you’re witnessing, register as a new patient today and let’s start the process of helping your baby feel better.