Is there anything worse than a crying baby? Not only is it difficult to see an infant in discomfort, but it’s frustrating when cause and the solution aren’t clear. Every baby is going to cry from time to time, but one in five babies are likely to have colic– a condition that doesn’t cause lasting harm, but results in pain and discomfort and lots of crying.
How to Identify Colic
A baby with colic is likely to cry for long periods of time, typically at the same times each day, almost like clock work. Along with crying they will tense up their muscles and ball up their fists. This is all the result of digestive discomfort.
What Causes Colic?
The actual causes of colic have been a mystery for some time, and in many ways they still are. Recent research has identified intestinal microbes as the possible culprits. Probiotic supplements are being looked at as possible solutions, but until a concrete treatment is found, there are a few things parents can do if their baby has colic.
How Can Parents Treat Colic?
1. Learn More: Learning about colic from various online resources will help parents understand what their child is feeling and therefore give them an idea of what could help sooth their child’s discomfort.
2. Diet Changes: For breastfeeding mothers with colicky babies, looking into some diet changes could help. Women with colicky babies find that avoiding milk products, eggs, seafood, and other foods will alleviate some of their child’s symptoms. Similarly, the food that is being fed to a baby directly, if any, can have adverse effects. Avoid gas-causing foods like certain vegetables, and any foods that family members are known to have allergies to.
3. Physical Treatments: Babies with colic are hard to sooth, but some physical treatments can help. Learning baby massage techniques or the best ways to swaddle an infant can at least give a little comfort to a baby with colic.
4.ColicCalm.com: ColicCalm.com is an all natural medicine for babies with colic symptoms like excess gas and indigestion. Not only is it a helpful treatment, but their website offers lots of great information and tips for parents of colicky babies.
5. The Local Physician: When all else fails, parents should contact a professional if there are still any questions about their child’s health. Not only will it clear up any confusion, but give them the knowledge and peace of mind to give their child the best attention possible.
