Many family members can be upset and the home environment is stressful when a baby is colicky. But what is colic? Colic is the uncontrollable crying of a healthy baby. Colic is considered if your baby is less than 5 months old and cries for more than three hours. On the other hand, colic is not a disease and it will not cause any harm to your baby, but colic is something difficult for babies and parents.
What are the symptoms of colic?
If your baby is colicky, you may notice that his cry is louder and higher than his normal cry. Your baby may also show signs of a gassy stomach. You may also notice that your colicky baby clenches his fists and stands up.
How long does colic last?
Fortunately, colic tends to peak around 6 weeks and will improve between 3 and 4 months. By the age of 4 months, 80 to 90 percent of babies end up with colic. Meanwhile, parents must learn to comfort their baby and ask for help when needed. Having and caring for a colicky baby is very stressful, and parents need to take regular rest to maintain their well-being.
Why do some babies have colic?
Colic is one of the biggest mysteries in a baby’s life. There is no definitive answer why some babies are more prone to colic than others. Babies born to mothers who smoke during or after pregnancy have a higher chance of colic. Colic is also said to be caused by unbalanced healthy bacteria found in the intestines.
Should I take my baby to the doctor if I suspect colic?
Taking your baby to the doctor is a very good idea, especially if you suspect colic. It is good to talk to a doctor about your baby’s crying condition. The doctor will examine and find out the possible causes why your baby is crying. Your baby may have bowel problems or urinary infections. If your baby has a fever, vomiting, or bloody stools, call your doctor right away.
Can a food allergy cause colic?
One of the most important things the doctor will consider is whether your baby might be allergic to the protein in cow’s milk. Your baby’s doctor may recommend observing to hydrolyze the formula. If the protein in cow’s milk is the cause of your baby’s problem, his symptoms will improve a week after the change of formula.
On the other hand, if your baby is breastfed, a dairy-free diet is worth a try. Ask your doctor about cutting back on milk, cheese, and yogurt for a couple of weeks to see if there is a difference in your baby’s condition.
What to do when you are stressed?
It is a challenge if you have a colicky baby. It is common and normal for you to feel angry or resentful towards your baby, but you don’t have to feel guilty about it. Everyone has this feeling sometimes. It’s okay to leave your baby in his crib or playpen for a while to heal.