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 Showers To Remember

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

Baby Shower Checklist for Planning a Baby Shower

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

Important Car Seat Statistics

Installing a car seat correctly is the most important thing... Read More

Educational Toys That Stimulate Chidrens Mind

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

How to Buy a Baby Crib Online

A baby crib is one of the most expensive things... Read More

Showered with Mom-to-Be Merriment

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

The Character Traits of the Typical Libran Baby

Your Libra Baby..September 23 - October 22Libras can be really... Read More

Baby Shower Invitations Ideas

The first thing you need to do before you order... Read More

Tips for Decorating Your Babys Nursery

Decorating your child's nursery is an exciting experience. Your little... Read More

Your Baby?s Nursery ? What You Will Need

As an expectant mother, you are full of excitement and... Read More

A Babys Sleeping Pattern

Sleeping..A newborn baby spends most of her time on two... Read More

Most Important Decision of a Lifetime - What to Name Your Baby

Most people don't know the meaning of their name, but... Read More

When Should Your Baby Wear Shoes?

There is actually a bit of controversy about this question.... Read More

Does The Size Of Your Baby Matter?

Does size matter? No, not that! Is your baby too... Read More

The Making of a Mini-Model

Baby modeling isn't an exclusive art - nor is it... Read More

Hints And Tips On Scrapbooking Baby?s ?Firsts?

It is true to say that a lot of people... Read More

10 Items of the Well-Stocked Diaper Bag

Does your diaper bag have everything you need in it?... Read More

Front Packs vs. Baby Back Packs

For ages caring parents have carried their babies with them... Read More

Baby Shower Food Items

Baby shower food items are one of the most important... Read More

When To Move From Carseat To Booster

Under three, use a car seat. The guidelines for transporting... Read More

The Mystery Around Colic

You are a proud parent of a happy and healthy... Read More

A Surprise Baby Shower Can Be the Perfect Way to Celebrate

Throwing a surprise baby shower doesn't have to be difficult.... Read More

The 7 Biggest Baby Sleep Mistakes That Parents Make

When parents face difficulties with infant and child sleep issues,... Read More

Infant Car Seats

Finding the best car seats for your child: To escape... Read More

A Must Have, Do-It-Yourself Resource For ALL Preschooler Parents

There is something so amazing and joyous about watching a... Read More

Baby Shower Hostess Etiquette

Does baby shower hostess etiquette allow for gift suggestions, if... Read More

Make Your Own Baby Food - The Easy Way!

Is your baby about to start solid foods? Are you... Read More

The Baby Food Debate: The Benefits of Homemade Baby Food Over The Jars

Americans have long depended on jarred baby foods for convenient... Read More

Baby Shower Recipes

Baby shower recipes are available on the Internet and in... Read More

Baby Proof Your Home - Frequently Asked Questions

Keeping your baby safe at all times is one of... Read More

Baby Products ? Essential Baby Products, Which Ones Do I Really Need?

There are many essential baby products a new parent must... Read More

Breast Feeding Basics For Your Newborn Baby

It is a myth that bottle-feeds and breast-feeding is equally... Read More

Baby Cribs - Safety Is Key

You have just learned that you are expecting a baby.... Read More