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Colic

Colic

Colic is when a baby cries a lot, but there is no obvious cause.  Colic can be particularly frustrating for parents because the baby’s distress occur for no apparent reason and no amount of consoling seems to bring any relief. It is a common problem that should get better on its own. Episodes of colic usually peak when the infant is about 6 weeks old and decline significantly after 3 to 4 months of age. Managing colic can add to the stress of caring for your newborn child, even though the excessive crying will resolve over time.

Crying and fussing are normal for infants, but your baby may have colic if they cry for more than three hours a day, three days a week for a least one week.

Symptoms of colic include: intense crying that may seem like screaming or an expression of pain. Crying for no apparent reason, unlike crying to express hunger or a need for a diaper change. Extreme fussiness even when the crying has diminished. Predictable timing, with episodes often occurring in the evening. Facial discoloring, such as reddening of the face or paler skin around the mouth. Bodily tension, such as clenched fists, arched back, a tense abdomen, stiffened legs, or arms.

The cause of colic is unknown and may result from numerous contributing factors. It is difficult for researchers; however possible contributing factors can include: a digestive system that is not fully developed. An imbalance of healthy bacteria in the digestive tract. Food allergies or intolerances. Over feeding, underfeeding or infrequent burping. Early form of childhood migraine or even family stress or anxiety. Colic does not cause any long-term medical problems for a child, but research has shown an association between colic and the following problems with parent wellbeing: increased risk of post-partum depression in mothers, early cessation of breast-feeding and feelings of guilt, exhaustion, helplessness or anger.

The primary goals of treatment are to soothe the child and to ensure the parents have the support the need to cope. You may find that the following advise will help: hold or cuddle your baby when they are crying a lot. Sit or hold your baby upright during feeding to stop them swallowing air. Walking around with or rocking your baby. Taking your baby for a car ride or walk in the stroller. Swaddling your baby in a blanket. Giving them a warm bath. Rubbing the baby’s tummy or placing your baby on your tummy for a back rub. Provide white noise or playing an audio of heartbeats or quiet soothing sounds.

Trial changes in your baby’s diet, such as formula changes if you are bottle feeding, or changes to the maternal diet, such as a diet without common allergens such as diary, eggs, nuts or wheat, if you are breastfeeding.

As a parent or carer, make sure you have some strategies in place, so you are able to take care of yourself, and get the support you need.  Take a break, either by taking turns with a spouse or partner or asking a friend to help for a while. Give yourself an opportunity to get out of the house if possible. Do not judge yourself or measure your success as a parent by how much your child is crying – colic is not a result of poor parenting.