Managing Colic
by courtkneeAll babies cry, but colicky babies have extended periods (sometimes hours) of inconsolable crying. They are unable to be comforted and may appear at times to be in pain. The causes of colic may be different for every baby, and in truth, doctors don’t know what exactly causes it. Some popular culprits are a milk allergy (for formula fed infants), gas or problems with the baby’s digestive symptoms. Caring for a colicky infant can be draining and frustrating. It is difficult to remain calm when you cannot seem to solve your child’s problem and keep them from hurting.
Since there is no specific cause for colic, treatment can be tricky. If your baby is formula fed, consider switching to a soy protein formula or a special formula with pre-digested protein. Many parents report seeing a decrease in colic symptoms after just 48 hours on a new formula. If your baby is breastfed or switching formula does not help, there are several techniques that you can try. Walk with your baby or rock them in a rocking chair. The constant motion may help to calm them. You can also try white noise, such as running water, a vacuum cleaner or a special white noise machine. Rubbing your baby’s back while they lay in their lap may help. If your infant’s colic is gas related, putting pressure on their stomach may relieve the pressure. Taking a drive with your baby in the car seat may help also. If they are relaxed by motion you can place them in a baby swing. Some babies respond well to music, so give that a try. Each baby is different and sometimes a solution that works one night will not work the next. Keep trying and remember that most colic symptoms disappear by the 3rd month.
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