Born early

[JRW93]

My little cousin was born 6 weeks early.  He is now 6 years old (almost 7) and it seems that he gets sick a lot.  He is highly allergic to cats which I know most kids grow out of (my little brother did) but I was curious..does the fact that he was born 6 weeks early make him more susceptible 2 illness?  

[trying43]

My brother and me both were both full term babies.  We both have allergies and are frequently sick a lot. (Me more than my brother) I wonder if the allergies aren't more the cause than being premie. (Maybe the allergies weaken the immune system, I am just throwing out theories here) My friends son was born 5 weeks early and he's never sick. So who knows..

[jamie4321]

yes indeed it can i know someone who had ababy at 8mons and hes now 3years old and is more sick then most kids.so i would say YES

[sorenr]

I think allergies are for the most part genetic. I was born right on time and have hayfever like my mum, my cousin was overdue and has loads of allergies, her mum (my auntie) is allergic to cats....so far my kids have not shown any signs of allergies (7 & 5) but they have both been brought up with cats and dogs and we live in the countryside so I think that helps desensitise.

[DNP47]

Typically premies catch up within 2 years, however I have two semi-premies (5 weeks early) and they get sick a lot. My oldest has a ton of allergies as well, hers are food allergies though.