Although colic can't be avoided, there may be some ways to avoid colic triggers. Crying is a normal outlet for babies to express what they cannot verbalize. Infants cry when they are hungry, uncomfortable, tired, and/or have soiled diapers. But for some babies, crying may be something that seemingly does not end no matter what frazzled parents do. In such instances, an infant may be experiencing colic.
Colic can fluster new parents. A baby that cries for hours on end can exact an emotional and physical toll and interrupt parents' schedules and sleep. Connecticut Children's Pediatric Health System says newborns are diagnosed with colic if they cry for more than three hours a day; the crying lasts for more than three days a week; and this pattern has been going on for more than three weeks. Babies experiencing colic often clench fists or curl their legs while crying. Babies' bellies often are tight and their faces can redden as well.
Managing colic can add to the stress new parents already feel. Although colic is a phase that infants typically outgrow, parents may wonder if there's anything they can do to quiet the crying. Although colic can't be avoided, there may be some ways to avoid colic triggers.
· Food diary: Breastfeeding mothers should realize that everything they eat and drink gets passed on to the baby and can affect them through breastmilk. Caffeine and chocolate can act as stimulants, and dairy products and nuts may be causing allergies. Certain medicines also can cause reactions in children. Keeping track of what you consume and the response it causes in your newborn may offer a clue about what to avoid to make the baby less fussy.
· Formula changes: If you are formula feeding, experimenting with another brand might help. Babies can be sensitive to certain proteins in formulas. Also, slow down feedings by using a nipple with a smaller hole. Feeding the baby smaller meals more often also might help with colic.
· Car ride: Sometimes the soothing hum of the engine and the tires on the road can help settle a newborn. This tactic also has a secondary benefit of getting you and the baby out of the house for a change of scenery.
· Change of position: Sometimes holding a baby differently can alleviate a colic episode. Lay baby across your arm or lap while you massage your child's back. If you suspect colic is from gas, hold your baby upright or rock the child using an infant swing.
· Take a break: FamilyDoctor.org says although colic can seem scary, it doesn't cause any short- or long-term problems for your baby. Placing your newborn in a crib or another safe space and letting the crying fit go on for a bit while you take a break is fine. Parents also can seek help from a friend or loved one and go out for some time to escape the crying.
Colic can affect any baby and often seems like it will never end. Fortunately, it's usually a temporary condition that resolves by age four months, and parents can try various strategies to cope until colic is a distant memory.