Colic is basically uncontrollable crying in a healthy baby. It can come as early as two weeks and last as long as three months. Typically they will cry for hours at a time and may do this a few times a week. If your baby is crying like this and appears ill of course seek medical attention. If you think your baby has colic but are worried or not sure don't hesitate to seek a diagnosis. Crying is the only way a baby has to communicate and the crying doesn't always mean colic. If your child is hungry or tired this can definitely produce a crying baby. Check to see if your baby is comfortable. Take into consideration your baby's personality some babies just like to be held. If all else fails there is a chance it is colic. I will say it again if you're concerned seek professional advice. Colic is stressful on you and baby but thankfully it does not last forever. Dealing with a colicky baby can be a true test on your physical stamina and emotional stability. I was lucky enough to endure it twice. At times I felt like I was going to begin crying uncontrollably myself.
There is no medically proven treatment to cure colic but there are things that can be done to treat the symptoms of colic and to help console your child. No two babies are the same and it may take trying several things before you find what comforts your baby. Sometimes infants with colic will experience gas symptoms which can cause tummy pain. Some physicians will recommend using infant gas drops. They are non prescription and can be purchased over the counter. A common brand is Mylicon yet many major retailers or drug stores will have a store brand that is more affordable. I used it with both of my colicky babies and did see some benefit. But keep in mind it only helps the gas symptoms; your child still may keep right on crying. Before giving your baby any kind of medicine you should consult their physician first for proper dosing instructions. While there is no proven cause for colic, some suggest that for bottle-fed babies the formula can be the cause. Your physician may suggest changing formulas. Some infants exhibit a sensitivity to the proteins in cows' milk similar to a food allergy. Sometimes the physician will replace the baby's formula with a soy formula or a hypo allergenic formula. Although there is nothing proved that soy formula helps with colic I did use it with my first colicky baby and I did not see much improvement but that is not to say it won't help your baby. I used the hypo allergenic formula for my second colicky baby and it worked wonders. Within days I noticed a dramatic change in the crying, he had less gas and fewer bowel movements. He has done so well with this particular formula we still use it. The down side to the hypo allergenic formula is they are quite costly. For me it was well worth the price. Keep in mind you should never change your baby's formula unless under the direction of the doctor.
Aside from the medical interventions here are some things you can do as a parent to try and comfort your little one.
- burp them often during feedings
- wrap them snugly in a blanket
- make use of a swing
- a relaxing bath if they enjoy bath time
- a car or stroller ride
- vibration or sound from washer or dryer
- rocking them
- pacifiers
Besides the stress colic puts on a baby it can be just as bad for the parents. Frustration can set in but remember your baby can sense these feelings and in return could make the crying worse. Don't take the crying personally. The crying is not the result of something your doing. During this time you need to take breaks. Mom and dad can switch off taking care of the baby. Utilize friends and family. Believe me it helps. They were a life saver for me. You need to take time away and enjoy a bit of quiet time. Remember this will not last forever and before long you will have a bright-eyed smiling baby on your hands.
This article is written by Tammy Pinarbasi, Owner of the Parent Super Site. You may reprint this article or use it on your website, however, we ask that you link back to the parent super site. http://www.parentsupersite.com
Article Source: Parenting Article Library