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Is your baby suffering from colic?
By mominthecity | March 6, 2008
Many parents, especially first time parents, aren’t sure why their baby is crying. It’s a guessing game – is he/she hungry, is he/she wet, is he/she tired, etc. Sometimes, however, you go through your checklist and everything seems fine…so why is your baby crying so much!? You think it’s colic, but not sure? I know, I know…you say, “I’ll call the pediatrician and see what this can be.” Having a newborn is no easy task and you’re probably calling and speaking to your pediatrician about lots of different issues. Before you run to make that call, here are some common symptoms a colicky baby will most likely exhibit. How do I know this, you ask? I am the proud mother of not 1, but 2 colicky babies, so believe me I’ve done my research and spoken to my pediatrician about it numerous times! I’m way past that stage, as they are now 2 and 4 years old…but I feel the need to share what I’ve learned over time.
Here are the most common symptoms:
1. Your baby cries for long periods of time and nothing will make him/her stop
2.Your baby begins to cry around the same time every day or night, usually after a feeding
3. Your baby shows signs of gas discomfort and abdominal bloating
4. If you feel your baby’s stomach, it is hard
5. Your baby often does not sleep well and seems irritable and fussy
If it turns out that your baby is suffering from colic, and you’re at your whits end, keep in mind that these symptoms usually go away by the time your baby is 3-4 months old. Doctors aren’t sure what exactly causes colic, but there are some theories. One such theory is that newborns have a digestive system that has never processed food. Their system is just beginning to learn how to properly move their food through the digestive tract. It takes time to learn this, which is usually why colic symptoms subside after a few months. Another theory is that mothers who nurse may have eaten certain foods that when passes through breast milk, causes some children to react with symptoms of colic. A further theory, is that babies often swallow air while feeding, which increases gas and bloating. Something to keep in mind is that these are only theories. Since doctors don’t know exactly what causes colicky babies, there is no sure way to treat it. When I was doing my share of research to help my children, I spoke to my doctor and other moms. They had many suggestions, but none worked. I was told about natural remedies, trying formula instead of nursing, and was even told to take the baby to a chiropractor. I’m not sure what the connection is between colic and a chiropractor, but people say it worked for them. I unfortunately, did not find any of these remedies successful with my children. Remember, many times you hear certain remedies worked, but how old was the baby at that point? Was the baby already 3 months old, and possibly the symptoms went away naturally? So, if you go ahead and try these things and it’s not working for you, don’t get aggravated and think, “it helped others, why not me?!” because it possibly wasn’t the cause of the symptoms going away for their baby. Also, remember to always consult with your doctor before trying any “remedies” a friend may tell you about.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that the colicky stage does end. Be patient, sensitive, and comforting to you baby during this difficult time. Remember, it is the most painful experience for them so far in life.
Topics: Baby Health |