Colic is characterised by frequent and prolonged bouts of crying in otherwise healthy babies. The most difficult part is identifying the cause of these cries, which is often a source of concern for parents. If your infant appears to be experiencing colic, the following sections will help you understand the underlying causes and symptoms.
Causes of Colic
Several factors may trigger colic in your baby:
- Immaturity of the Digestive System: Babies are born with an underdeveloped digestive system, which can lead to painful intestinal spasms after feeding.
- Accumulation of Gas: Colic can result from swallowing air during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, leading to bloating and discomfort.
- Food Sensitivity: Some babies react to proteins found in breast milk or infant formula.
- Excessive Stimulation: Infants exposed to too many stimuli during the day may become irritable and cry more in the evening.
Symptoms of Colic
Common signs include:
- Intense crying that lasts for more than three hours a day, at least three days a week.
- A baby who draws their legs up to their tummy or clenches their fists while crying.
- Episodes of crying that start and stop suddenly, often at regular intervals.
It is important to note that colic is not linked to any serious illness. However, if you have any concerns, or if the crying is accompanied by a fever, loss of appetite, or other unusual symptoms, it is imperative to consult a doctor.
Solutions to Soothe Colic
There are several ways to relieve the discomfort of colic in your baby. Here are some practical solutions for parents:
Use a Baby Heating Pad
The gentle warmth of a baby heating pad is one of the most effective methods to calm colic. By warming your baby’s tummy, their abdominal muscles relax and spasms subside. However, it is crucial to use a heating pad specifically designed for infants to ensure both effectiveness and safety. At Hello Hippo, we offer a heating pad with a baby belt, designed specifically for little ones. This accessory helps soothe your child’s colic episodes without the need for direct skin contact.
Adopt Babywearing Techniques
Traditional methods can be very effective in alleviating your baby’s discomfort. Carrying your infant in a sling or baby carrier allows them to be held close to you, where the warmth of your body and gentle movement can help reduce their crying, sometimes even lulling them to sleep.
Abdominal Massages
A gentle, circular massage of your baby’s tummy in a clockwise direction can help release trapped gas. To ease the motion and further relieve discomfort, you may use a baby oil or lotion.
Modify Feeding
During the breastfeeding period, the foods consumed by the mother can affect the baby’s digestive system, potentially triggering colic. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid dairy products or spicy foods during this time to prevent irritation. For particularly sensitive babies, consult your paediatrician for suitable formula recipes, which can be easily warmed using a portable bottle warmer.
Create a Soothing Environment
Excessive crying can also be alleviated by creating a calming environment. Consider incorporating dim lighting in your baby’s room with a customisable LED night light, along with white noise or gentle music to help them relax. It is also important to minimise excessive stimuli and maintain a quiet routine, particularly in the evening.
Why Consulting a Doctor is Essential ?
While colic can be a real challenge, it is generally temporary and not dangerous. Nonetheless, it is vital not to dismiss the importance of consulting a healthcare professional to rule out other possible causes of excessive crying. Conditions such as gastro-oesophageal reflux or allergies should not be taken lightly. A doctor can provide advice on the best practices for managing colic and, if necessary, prescribe appropriate treatments.
