Colic is a mysterious and frustrating condition that many parents feel completely helpless about. To deal with your baby's colic, you should educate yourself on the causes, symptoms and treatments for it. In this article, we'll explore all three of aforementioned elements.
There is no scientifically proven cause for colic but it is generally understood that colic is related to complications in digestive system. Infants have under-developed digestive system and there are constant shocks to it caused by new foods being introduced. Also the muscle that surrounds the digestive tracts that aids digestion has not yet been formed fully. In addition to all this, infants doesn't have probiotics in their digestive system that helps digestion. Because colic usually disappears once the baby is of three to four months of age, these three facts strongly supports colic being related to problems in baby's digestive system.
Although we may not know for certain what causes colic, common symptoms of colic are easily noticed. Most obvious signs of your baby suffering from colic are vigorous and incessant crying. There is something called “Rule of Three” that doctors use to determine whether a baby has a colic. It is: “A baby that cries for three or more hours per day, at least three times per week, within a three month period”. Wess, et al., “paroxysmas fussing in infancy.” Pediatrics 1984:74:998. If this guideline describes your baby's incessant bouts of crying, he/she may be among the 25 percent of all babies who suffer from colic.
Even if you have determined that your baby is suffering from colic, it is still recommended you have your baby examined by a pediatrician. There may be other underlying causes that might not be colic related such as allergic reactions, gastric disorder and other health complications.
Unfortunately there is no known cure for colic but there are some treatments and remedies you can explore. Simple and old-fashioned techniques in soothing the babies can be surprisingly effective. Creating a rocking motion or letting the baby sucking on pacifier can create a calming effect. Massaging your baby in gently in the back and torso can aid in passing gas and stool. Natural gripe water is often used to relieve the flatulence problems in infants. Other homeopathic treatments including acupuncture, herbal teas and chiropractic can help babies suffering from colic.
Even though your baby suffering from colic can be extremely distressing and frustrating, don't let it overwhelm you. Understand that colic in baby is one of the most common pediatrician ailments and it'll eventually pass.
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