Ways To Deal With Stress From Baby Colic

For parents and grandparents alike, an infant suffering from baby colic can lead to worry, frustration and a feeling of no end in sight. While a timely feeding or nap can soothe the common reasons for fussing, continuous crying can be a symptom of a much larger problem.

Knowing what works best in comforting an infant can lessen the frustration felt by a caregiver. It may also enable quicker detection of more serious issues that may call for additional care. Detecting a colic can be relatively easy if you are aware of its possible causes and symptoms.

An otherwise healthy baby who is under five months old may have colic if there are crying episodes that last for more than three times a day; for more than three hours at a time; or for more than three days per week. It often surfaces when an infant is around two or three weeks old and commonly occurs late in the afternoon or evening at the same time every day.

Baby colic may develop as a result of a sensitive or immature digestive system. Problems that affect the body’s ability to breakdown or digest proteins from breast milk or formula can create painful gases to form in the intestines. Inconsolable crying from this excruciating pain can also become a key contributor to gas on the stomach due to the air that is being swallowed.

While colic can be known to last for months and often wears on the nerves of those who care for its young victims, it is not a disease and will not cause any long-term harm. The setback of this puzzling issue can be managed by applying simple techniques that have been known to work for other people experiencing the same thing.

The basic fixes that may help with surviving this challenging time are certainly worth testing. Making a few minor adjustments during feeding time can make a noticeable difference. Supplying a special bottle that discourages gulping or fast drinking is good to offer to a baby who is not overly hungry. Also, keeping the baby upright while feeding is important and will lessen air bubbles that can be swallowed.

After each feeding, ample time should be given to burp and release any air bubbles that may have formed while eating. Burping should be done often and for longer periods of time. A change in formula or diet for a breast feeding mother may be in order and could prove to lessen stress on the digestive system.

Other suggestions that may help a with calming baby colic include giving soothing baths, swaddling in a blanket, sticking to a routine, experimenting with exposing to different environments, using a swing, bouncer or drive in the car to keep baby moving, and singing or playing music. Even giving a gentle body massage has been proven to relax and relieve pressure throughout the body.

It is important to remember that although a baby may continue to cry in spite of all efforts given, it does not mean that he is not being loved or cared for. Parents and grandparents can become emotionally drained while caring for an infant with baby colic. Having a proper support system in place will be a vital tool in remaining calm and sane while enduring this journey.