Coping With Colic
A new baby with colic is one of the most difficult problems a
new parent has to cope with. Most new parents are under pressure
trying to deal with a new routine and lack of sleep, the added
burden of a crying infant you seem powerless to help can be
overwhelming. The only comfort that can be offered is, with 1 in
5 babies developing colic, many other parents are suffering too
and that by the time the baby is four months old the problem
normally disappears.
The normal symptoms of colic are continuous loud crying, flexing
and extending the legs, clenching fists and often a distended
tummy. Very often this occurs in the late afternoon or early
evening, although it can happen at any time.
So what is colic and is there a remedy for it? There are many
possible causes, but initially the most important thing that a
parent must do is establish that the child is actually suffering
from colic and there is not another reason for the crying.
Colic, however distressed the baby seems, is not life
threatening, but it is essential not to assume a crying baby has
colic, check with your doctor immediately.
Once colic has been diagnosed you should try to identify the
cause. If you are breastfeeding avoid foods that are likely to
cause gas. Make a note of what you are eating, baby may be
intolerant to something in your diet, including dairy products.
If the baby is bottle fed your doctor may suggest a change of
formula. Don't overfeed the baby, we all know that bloated
feeling when we have overeaten, so why shouldn't baby feel the
same. Try hard not to get stressed, I know this isn't easy but
many experts believe that babies are sensitive to stress around
them and react. It's a catch 22 situation, the more crying the
greater the stress. Try to take turns in dealing with the crying
baby, even rope in grandparents or a close friend so that you
can walk away for 30minutes.
A continuous soothing sound such as a washing machine or
tumbledryer often works. There are CD's available that can help
and I found that a tape of sea waves worked well, particularly
when gently rocking the child.
Seek your doctor's advice on medicines, he may recommend some
colic relief. If colic has been diagnosed but there is any
change in the baby's behaviour, go straight back to your doctor,
it's better to err on the safe side.
Finally remember that it will pass, in a few months that
screaming bundle will be toddling about getting into more
mischief than you can possibly imagine!
This article is for information only. You should always consult
your doctor before commencing any treatment and no liability is
accepted.