Colic

Colic Causes, Symptoms and Remedies

Sometimes referred to as fussy baby syndrome, colic in newborns typically begins around two weeks after birth and continues up until the infant is four to five months old. The only way your baby can communicate their pain is through frequent and sometimes continuous crying. For new parents, actually determining what the problem is can be difficult.

What Causes Colic in Babies

Although the exact causes of colic are unknown, some doctors believe that immature digestive systems accompanied by an intolerance to lactose could be the reason whilst others suggest that a build up of gas in the intestinal tract, muscle spasms and even acid reflux could be to blame. Other schools of thought include an imbalance in hormone levels, hypersensitivity to sound and light or even immature nervous systems that require a period of adjustment before the infant feels comfortable.

Of course, it is always better to be safe than sorry especially when it comes to the care of newborn babies. To that end, you should always consult with your doctor first to ensure that nothing else is causing your infants discomfort. If your doctor confirms that colic is indeed the problem, there a number of colic remedies that you can try.

Newbaby.com: Dr. Lisa Gwynn: What is Colic

Things to try to Sooth a Colic Baby

The feeding patterns for your baby are the first thing to look at. If you are feeding your little one cows milk, try changing to breast feeding if possible otherwise, trying a hypoallergenic formula, or adding Lactase may be the answer.

If you are breastfeeding, you should avoid drinking either caffeine based beverages or cows milk yourself.

Using bottles with plastic liners might cut the quantity of air swallowed and regular burping prevents the infant from getting an upset stomach.

Colicky babies that spit up milk frequently, regurgitate or always shriek after feeding maybe lactose intolerant or suffering from infant acid reflux disorder.

Because many newborns have a difficult time adjusting to their new, sometimes over stimulating environment, you can try changing to something a little more peaceful and relaxing.

Swaddle your colicky baby in blankets and put them in a front carrier rather than lying on their back looking at the ceiling. Alternatively, put the infant close to soft vibrations such as next to the tumble dryer or in the car. A gentle massage or a warm water bottle on the belly can help as can warm baths, pacifiers and infant swings.

There are other colic remedies recommended by pediatricians that are also worth a try.

Colic gripe water is a natural herbal mixture that is well-known for reducing digestive discomfort. Alternatively, homeopathic drops and herbal teas with chamomile or mint can also be effective

If after about four months, your baby still seems to be suffering with colic symptoms, is not feeding regularly or does not appear to be gaining any weight, you should seek advice from a pediatrician. This also applies if, as well as crying, your little one also has a fever, has frequent diarrhea or has bloody stools.

Are there any Remedies for Colic in Babies

Dealing with a colic in babies can be very stressful for new parents but natural remedies like colic gripe water can help soothe a colicky baby

Colicky Baby Soothing Tips

Getting a colicky baby to calm down can be quite a challenge, but there are some things you can do to ease your baby's discomfort

How to Relieve Newborn Colic

Trying to relieve newborn colic can be a challenge for many new parents. However, there a number of natural and effective ways to treat colic in newborns

How to Find a Colic Formula that Works

Finding the right colic formula that works for your baby, may mean trying a combination of methods until you find the solution that works specifically for your infant

Natural Home Remedies for Colic in Babies

Natural or herbal remedies for colic include fennel, which can be boiled into a tea and given to your infant in drops, and catnip which can be mixed into your infant's formula

Natural Cures for Colicky Babies

There is no real cure for colicky babies, but there are some things you can do to make your life and the baby's growing pains more bearable

All Natural Colic Tablets for Colicky Babies

Colic tablets contain all natural homeopathic ingredients and are used for the temporary relief of symptoms of restlessness, irritability, gas pain and colic caused by food, feeding too quickly, swallowing air and similar conditions during teething, colds...

How Pregnancy Concerns can Reduce Newborn Colic

Pregnancy concerns can be a factor after your baby is born, especially if you notice that your baby has newborn colic symptoms such as onstant crying, gas, bloating and extended legs

Colic in Adults

Symptoms of colic in adults can include digestive discomfort, indigestion and reflux. Feeling tired or sluggish, but unable to go to sleep are another symptom