5 Things You Can Do About Baby Colic

Colicky babies are not that hard to spot. If your otherwise healthy child is younger than six months and spends at least three hours crying – nonstop – than chances are good your baby has Colic. What’s Colic? Doctors are not really sure of the core reason some babies suffer from colic and others do not. Mainly, however, colic is a discomfort in the gut. Healthcare providers say that is why babies suddenly stiffen their limbs, arches their backs and lets out a very loud shriek that doesn’t seem to have an end, no matter what you do.

There are some ways to at least manage a colicky baby, although that will take some trail and error. (All babies are different to how they respond). Certainly have your baby examined by a doctor to make sure there’s no underlying medical or feeding problem.

In the meantime, here are 5 things you can do about Baby Colic.

1. Probiotics might help. Since infants with colic have different intestinal micro flora than infants who don’t have it, probiotics have helped reduce colic symptoms in some babies. It would be wise to ask your pediatrician about whether this would be a good recommendation.

2. Make some noise. This might sound odd considering the loud noise the baby is already making, but it’s been said that the rhythmic heartbeat and gentle whooshing noises they heard in the womb can actually be soothing outside of it. Some babies have found it comforting to sit in the laundry room while the dryer is running or even hear the sounds of a vacuum. An exhaust fan might not be a bad idea, either. Then there’s the playing of a CD of soothing sounds like rainfall or other natural noises. If this doesn’t work, try the opposite. Be quiet.

3. Go for a spin. The movement, noise and vibration of a vehicle have been known to help in some cases. There’s also the idea of a change of scenery (this one is for you) while seeking relief for the baby.

4. Try a different atmosphere. For instance, if you have been indoors it might help to take the baby for a walk in a stroller or perhaps a sling. Maybe the new sights, sounds and smells will help along with the fresh air and movement of walking. The best thing for them to do during a nice, swaying walk is to fall fast asleep.

5. A bath. Some colicky babies have responded with warm baths, especially in the middle of their colic times. This is designed to distract them from their discomfort. The spray of a hand-held nozzle on their back soothes some babies, so try that. Others find the rhythmic pulsing of the water and sound a nice pacifier as well.

Remember to check with your doctor before taking any treatment or medical remedy.