Of course, all babies cry, and some cry more than others — even without colic, a baby can cry for an hour or two per day; after all, it’s her primary way of communicating. But in a colicky baby, the typical soothers (physical contact, food, diaper change, nap) don’t help.
One of the particularly troublesome aspects of colic is how it affects parents: When you get upset because you’re unable to comfort your child, she can sometimes pick up on your unease, which can prompt her to cry even more.
Crying can lead to her swallowing more air, and a vicious cycle is underway.
Colic most commonly manifests as irritation of the stomach or intestines. Usually this irritation occurs when your baby swallows air and is unable to burp properly during or after meals. But the cause of colic is still not completely understood.
What triggers colic?
• Milk allergy
Studies have shown that sometimes a nursing mother’s consumption of cow’s milk can lead to colic in the baby. Eliminating milk and dairy foods (cheese, butter, etc.) for three to four days can make the symptoms of colic disappear in about 20% of affected babies. If you’re worried about your calcium intake, talk to your doctor about supplements, and increase consumption of calcium-rich non-dairy foods like dark leafy greens.
If you’re not breastfeeding, talk to your pediatrician about switching from a milk-based formula to a soy-based one. There are also bottles that are designed to specifically reduce the amount of air your baby swallows.
• Smoking
If you smoke, one of the many possible side effects for your child is colic: Mothers who smoke are far more likely than non-smokers to have children with colic. Yet another reason to seek help in quitting.
What can you do?
• Probiotics
The latest treatment for infant colic are probiotics, a form of healthy bacteria. There are preparations made for infants that come in powder or drops that have been shown to reduce colic pretty well. Defiinitely worth a try.
• Tea treatment
One fairly easy home remedy that has proven helpful for generations is giving your baby chamomile or fennel tea. Mix 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds with about 1/2 cup of water; boil it for 2 minutes, allow it to steep for another 2 minutes, and then strain it completely. Give one teaspoon to your child at each meal. You can also mix it with milk.
• Sweet relief
Another remedy which has helped relieve colic for many babies is a simple sugar-water solution. Mix 2 to 3 tablespoons of sugar with 1/2 cup of water, and give your baby 1 to 2 teaspoons every couple of hours. Just be sure not to give your baby more than 1 to 2 ounces per day.
• Over-the-counter options
You can also try homeopathic solutions like Hyland’s Colic Tablets and Wellements Gripe Water or Mylicon drops, which help break up gas bubbles. As always, you should consult your pediatrician before giving baby any new medication.
• Rocking
Gently rocking your baby can also help against colic pains. Try carrying her around, holding her in a rocking chair or taking her for a stroller ride. You can also purchase automatic bouncers that gently vibrate and hum, which can calm colic attacks — especially in babies who are known for falling asleep during car rides.
• Alternative approaches
Some parents of colicy babies swear by infant chiropractic, massage or craniosacral work, where an infant specialist applies gentle pressure to baby’s muscles, belly, back and neck. There are also infant massage techniques for parents that can be very helpful. Talk to your pediatrician about whether this is a good option for you and your family.
Last words
If your child has colic, it’s important to try not to get upset by her crying. If you can stay calm, it can help your child calm down, too.
There are other ways you can help, especially if you’re observant. Assess just how your baby reacts during mealtimes — does she suck and swallow in anticipation of being fed? Maybe you can anticipate her hunger. Does her binky have large air holes? Try a different model. Does she burp more easily if she takes breaks during meals? Or if she lies on her tummy afterward, with her head elevated? Try a couple of options; maybe one will help. And when you have a colicky baby, every bit of help counts.