Colic in Babies: What It Is, Why It Happens, Symptoms and Treatment Methods
Colic in infants refers to frequent, prolonged and intense crying or restlessness. This can be very challenging for parents, as there is often no clear cause for the baby’s distress and no obvious way to calm the baby.
What is Colic?
Colic refers to episodes of excessive crying that usually start when babies are about 6 weeks old and begin to subside by 3 to 4 months of age. The exact cause of this condition is unknown, but it is thought to be the result of a combination of several factors. These factors include digestive system problems, imbalances in gut flora, over- or under-nutrition, gas problems, food allergies or intolerances, an early form of childhood migraine, and family stress or anxiety.
What are the Symptoms of Colic?
The most obvious symptom of colicky babies is intense and continuous crying. This crying is usually most intense in the evening and occurs when the baby cries for no apparent reason. It is unlikely that the baby is hungry or has soiled the diaper during crying. In addition, colic attacks are usually repeated at a certain time.
Colic Treatment
The aim of treating colicky babies is to both comfort the baby and reduce the parents’ stress. Colic usually goes away on its own over time, but the following treatment methods can help in the process:
1. Soothing Strategies: You can try different methods to calm the baby. For example, holding and gently rocking the baby, rubbing the baby’s tummy, giving a gentle back massage, playing rhythmic sounds or pushing the baby in a stroller.
2. Feeding Arrangements: Feeding the baby in an upright position and having the baby burp frequently during feeding can reduce digestive problems. Special bottles can be used to support the upright feeding position.
3. Dietary Changes: For breastfeeding mothers, changes to the mother’s diet may be necessary in some cases. Removing or reducing foods that can potentially cause discomfort (dairy products, eggs, nuts, etc.) can reduce digestive problems.
4. Probiotics: Some studies suggest that probiotics may help improve the digestive health of colicky babies. However, more research is needed on this topic.
5. Take Care of Your Own Care: Coping with colic can be stressful, so it is important for parents to take care of their own health. Paying attention to sleep patterns, exercising and avoiding stress can help parents feel better.
Colic in babies is usually a temporary condition that resolves itself over time. However, it is important that parents maintain a patient and loving attitude towards the baby and themselves during this process. If colic symptoms are alarmingly severe or persist for a long time, it is important to consult a doctor.
