Helping Baby Colic - Relief For Your Baby

Helping Baby Colic - Relief For Your Baby   by Steve Phillips

When a baby cries incessantly and no cause can be found, a baby may be diagnosed with infant colic. Colic seems to occur in babies around 2-3 months old and usually stops by the time they reach 6 months. Rather frustratingly, colic has no definite cause and no sure treatment. This is not to say that there are no ways of relieving your baby's suffering, however it does mean that it is usually a case of trial and error to discover the correct combination of treatment.

Treatments which may work for your colicky baby include:

* Gripe water - commonly used to treat colic. It is a herb solution (often containing ginger, peppermint and camomile) which helps the stomach and intestines.

* A car ride - this is thought to calm infant colic because of the vibrating motion. There are devices you can by to create this experience within the baby's crib.

* Medication - in some cases doctors or paediatricians will prescribe medicines to relieve the baby's gas. However, as not all colic is caused by gas the results will vary.

* A ride in a swing - often rhythmic back and forth motion is soothing for a baby suffering from colic.

* Sit your baby upright during feeding in order to prevent him/her from swallowing air.

* Change your diet - if you are breastfeeding try to avoid caffeine, spicy food and alcohol as this can aggravate a baby's colic.

* Wind your baby frequently - always burp your baby after a feed and try to burp them throughout the day. It is perfectly normal for them to spit up a small amount of milk at this time. However, if they almost always spit up a substantial amount after meals you may want to take your baby to the doctor in order to rule out baby acid reflux; also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

* White noise - some babies find the noise from a washing machine or vacuum cleaner soothing.

* Gently massaging your baby's stomach or back, as well as a warm bath, may also help to ease your baby's colic.

* Removing all dairy products from your baby's diet - or your diet if you are breastfeeding - may also ease colic as sometimes it is caused by a temporary dairy intolerance. If your baby is formula-fed discuss which hypoallergenic milk formula is most suitable for your baby with your doctor.

Take comfort in the knowledge that colic will always improve without medical intervention. Around 25% of babies worldwide suffer from colic, although the severity can vary greatly, so it may be worth asking family and friends if they have any experience of the condition and have any advice for you. Even knowing they understand can help immensely. However, if you are finding it difficult to cope with your colicky baby contact your doctor or paediatrician immediately to discuss possible treatments.

If your baby's colic does not subside within 6 months of their birth it is likely to be acid reflux and may need medical treatment.

About the Author

Steve Phillips is a father who has cared for children suffering from baby reflux symptoms and has useful hints, tips and tricks to help you get through this difficult time. He always recommends seeking medical advice, but parent to parent help may be invaluable.
http://www.survivebabyreflux.com/baby-colic-relief/