Many family members can become upset and the family environment is stressful when a baby is colicky. But what is colic? Colic is uncontrollable crying of a healthy baby. It is considered colic if your baby is less than 5 months old and cries for more than three hours. On the other hand, colic is not a disease and will not cause any harm to your baby, but colic is a difficult thing for babies and parents to go through.
What are the symptoms of colic?
If your baby is colicky, you may notice that his cries are louder and higher-pitched than his normal cry. Your baby may also show signs of gas in the tummy. You may also notice your colicky baby clench their fists and get up.
How long does the colic last?
Fortunately, cramping tends to peak around 6 weeks and will improve in 3-4 months. By the age of 4 months, 80 to 90 percent of babies have ended up colicky. In the meantime, parents must learn to comfort their baby and ask for help when she needs it. Having and caring for a colicky baby is very stressful and parents need to take regular breaks to maintain their well-being.
Why do some babies have colic?
Colic is one of the biggest mysteries in a baby’s life. There is no definitive answer as to why some babies are more prone to colic than others. Babies born to mothers who smoke during or after pregnancy are more likely to have colic. Colic is also said to be caused by unbalanced healthy bacteria found in the intestines.
Should I take my baby to the doctor if I suspect colic?
Taking your baby to the doctor is a very good idea, especially if you suspect colic. It is good to talk to a doctor about your baby’s crying condition. The doctor will examine and find out the possible causes for your baby crying. Your baby could have intestinal problems or urinary infections. If your baby has a fever, vomits, or bloody stools, call your doctor right away.
Can a food allergy cause colic?
One of the most important things the doctor will consider is whether your baby might be allergic to cow’s milk protein. Your baby’s doctor may recommend watching to hydrolyze the formula. If cow’s milk protein is the cause of your baby’s problem, his symptoms will improve a week after the formula change.
On the other hand, if your baby is breastfed, a dairy-free diet is worth trying. Ask your doctor about cutting back on milk, cheese, and yogurt for a couple of weeks to see if there is a difference in your baby’s condition.
What to do when you are stressed?
It’s a challenge if you have a colicky baby. It’s common and normal to feel angry or resentful towards your baby, but you don’t have to feel guilty about it. Everyone has this feeling sometimes. It is okay to leave the baby in his crib or playpen for a short time to recover.
