Colic Basics -
Giving You What You Need To Know
Colic - or frequent crying in babies - is sometimes caused
by excess gas or poor carbohydrate absorption. In one study,
colicky babies and perfectly healthy babies were given small
samples of apple juice and white grape juice. While they had no
problem digesting the grape juice, the colicky babies had a
harder time with the apple juice, resulting in a frantic crying
episode.
To tell a colicky baby from a sick baby, the rule is usually
about the crying episodes. If it goes on for more than three
hours, for more than three days, and for more than three weeks,
then these are symptoms of colic.
More often than not, colic is sort of like growing pains,
where the baby's getting used to his or her new environment and
bodily processes. Remember, it's quite a system shock to be
utterly dependent upon the mother and then suddenly have to
regulate independently!
After a trip to the doctor to be sure nothing is seriously
wrong, there are several colic remedies to try. First of all,
changing the feeding patterns may reduce stress for the
baby.
Colic can also be treated by changing from cow's milk to
breast feeding, trying a hypoallergenic formula, or adding
Lactase. Breast feeders should avoid caffeine or milk.
Using bottles with plastic liners may reduce the amount of
air swallowed and frequent burping keeps the baby from getting
an upset stomach. If the colicky baby is spitting up the milk
frequently, regurgitating or always shrieking after feeding,
then it's possible he or she is lactose intolerant or has acid
reflux disorder.
Secondly, try changing the over-stimulating environment to
treat colic. Some babies have a hard time adjusting to all the
sounds and lights. Swaddle your colic baby in blankets, put him
or her in a front carrier rather than laying them flat and
facing the ceiling, or put the baby near soft vibrations (such
as next to the dryer or in the car).
Give the baby a massage or put a warm water bottle on the
belly. Warm baths, pacifiers and infant swings can be relaxing
to the troubled infant.
Thirdly, there are some doctor-recommended colic remedies to
try. Anti-reflux medication, herbal teas with chamomile or
mint, anti-gas drops, homeopathic drops or "gripe water." Colic
gripe water is a herbal concoction known to reduce digestive
irritability.
It's natural to feel pent-up anger and resentment toward the
colic baby when many sleepless nights stack up and the baby
seems inconsolably fussy. During this time, it's equally
important to find outlets for these negative emotions.
Many cases of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome occur as a result
of a colicky infant. First, remember that the baby will outgrow
this.
Then be sure to alternate caring for the infant with a
spouse or other caretaker. Get out and do things for yourself.
Physical exercise can be an important release - or take a nap
if you feel tired and aggressive. In some cases, a counselor
can help you express your feelings in a healthy manner.
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