Coping With Colic

A new baby with colic is one of the most difficult problems a new parent has to cope with. Most new parents are under pressure trying to deal with a new routine and lack of sleep, the added burden of a crying infant you seem powerless to help can be overwhelming. The only comfort that can be offered is, with 1 in 5 babies developing colic, many other parents are suffering too and that by the time the baby is four months old the problem normally disappears.

The normal symptoms of colic are continuous loud crying, flexing and extending the legs, clenching fists and often a distended tummy. Very often this occurs in the late afternoon or early evening, although it can happen at any time.

So what is colic and is there a remedy for it? There are many possible causes, but initially the most important thing that a parent must do is establish that the child is actually suffering from colic and there is not another reason for the crying. Colic, however distressed the baby seems, is not life threatening, but it is essential not to assume a crying baby has colic, check with your doctor immediately.

Once colic has been diagnosed you should try to identify the cause. If you are breastfeeding avoid foods that are likely to cause gas. Make a note of what you are eating, baby may be intolerant to something in your diet, including dairy products. If the baby is bottle fed your doctor may suggest a change of formula. Don't overfeed the baby, we all know that bloated feeling when we have overeaten, so why shouldn't baby feel the same. Try hard not to get stressed, I know this isn't easy but many experts believe that babies are sensitive to stress around them and react. It's a catch 22 situation, the more crying the greater the stress. Try to take turns in dealing with the crying baby, even rope in grandparents or a close friend so that you can walk away for 30minutes.

A continuous soothing sound such as a washing machine or tumbledryer often works. There are CD's available that can help and I found that a tape of sea waves worked well, particularly when gently rocking the child.

Seek your doctor's advice on medicines, he may recommend some colic relief. If colic has been diagnosed but there is any change in the baby's behaviour, go straight back to your doctor, it's better to err on the safe side.

Finally remember that it will pass, in a few months that screaming bundle will be toddling about getting into more mischief than you can possibly imagine!

This article is for information only. You should always consult your doctor before commencing any treatment and no liability is accepted.

Margaret Tye runs the FromTots2Teens website that offers information on supplies for children of all ages as well as advice on health and other child and teenage related problems.

You are welcome to use this article as long as it is not altered and credit is given to the author, with a link back to this site. http://www.fromtots2teens.com. Please pay the site a visit for articles on other childhood health issues.

---

Baby Shower for Mom and the Ladies

Baby Shower for Moms who just wanna have fun! This... Read More

How to Choose a Baby Gate

Once your baby is out of their crib and playpen,... Read More

Selecting The Right Type of Stroller For Your Lifestyle

Having a baby is exciting, but also very tough! There... Read More

Showered with Mom-to-Be Merriment

Your friend's having a baby. What an exciting time for... Read More

5 Best Free Child Games for Your Preschooler

There seems to be more and more pressure on parents... Read More

7 Stages of Potty Training

There are seven stages of potty training. They begin with... Read More

Baby Girl Clip Art

The online baby girl clip art images help you to... Read More

Family Baby Showers

The addition of baby number 2, 3, or 10 is... Read More

Finding the Right Baby Soap for Your Babys Skin

Baby SoapAren't all soap the same, especially baby soap? Do... Read More

Childrens Gift Ideas: Babies, Toddlers, and Beyond

When your time comes to shower a new mom or... Read More

Baby Shower Favor Ideas

With so many different aspects of a shower to plan,... Read More

The Colic Baby

When a baby has colic, the family environment is stressful... Read More

Baby Shower Checklist for Planning a Baby Shower

Most shower checklists will suggest you start planning approximately four... Read More

When Your Wee One Goes Wee Wee Well

After reading several books about potty training (my son was... Read More

My RAD Child

When I say RAD you may think of a child... Read More

Whats With Celebrity Baby Names?

It seems that the days of naming your son or... Read More

Your Baby And Social Skills

Your baby's first year is filled with many challenges and... Read More

Educational Toys That Stimulate Chidrens Mind

When children start to walk more steadily, run, push, pull,... Read More

Does Your Baby Necessarily Need Shoes?

When you came up with such question, what will be... Read More

Babies Born During The Sign Of Gemini

Your Gemini Baby..May 21 - June 20Gemini children are lively... Read More

Luxury Baby Bedding - What to Look For Before You Buy

When buying luxury baby bedding, perhaps first decide what style... Read More

Why You Need to Teach Your Baby How To Swim

Many parents are discovering the art of teaching their baby... Read More

Top 3 Must Have Books for Your Baby or Toddler

Reading is one of the most important things you will... Read More

Baby Shower Games For Your Special Baby Shower

So you're holding a baby shower? Then you will need... Read More

Baby Showers To Remember

Every mother wants an enchanting baby shower for her new... Read More

Tips To Get Your Child To Stop Using A Pacifier

Limit the time you allow your child to use a... Read More

How to Choose a Diaper Pail for Disposable Diapers

When you have already made the decision not to use... Read More

Baby Shower Party Game Ideas to Keep Your Guests Entertained

Baby shower party game ideas?? This is the question which... Read More

How to Meet the Dietary Needs of Babies ? Health, Palate, and Lifestyle

More and more studies are proving that food has a... Read More

Aromatherapy For Babies

Before reading this article keep in mind that most doctors... Read More

Favorite Cake Flavors for Baby and Bridal Showers

A cake is an excellent treat at any party, especially... Read More

How to Pick the Best Name for Your Baby

Expectant parents spend hours preparing the nursery, poring over pregnancy... Read More

Liven Up Your Baby Shower With A Few Games

You have a baby shower planned for a friend; you... Read More