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Colic

Colic can be mistaken for trapped wind. the difference being that Colic describes a healthy baby having episodes of excessive, high pitched inconsolable crying.

Crying generally starts late in the afternoon going late into the evening & may last for 3 hours or more over 3 days, lasting for more than 3 weeks.

On average Colic can appear 3~4 weeks after birth & disappear as quickly as it came around 4~6 months of age. It is a very common concern & occurs in 1 in 5 babies!

Signs & Symptoms

In addition to the 3 rules here are further colic signs & symptoms:

  • Pulling up legs, clenching fists & appearing agitated.

  • Eating & sleeping patterns disrupted due to excessive crying. Baby may appear to want a feed only to reject, or may doze & then wake crying inconsolably.

  • Has a flushed, red face whilst crying.

  • Difficult to comfort & settle.

  • Rumbling, very windy tummy.

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Why Does My Baby Have Colic?

There is no known reason or cure at present for Colic. It affects equally both bottle & breast fed babies & equally in both boys & girls. 

Researchers find it difficult to account for why it affects babues of a certain age, time of day or how long it lasts.

Factors which may contribute are:

  • Immature digestive system.

  • Trapped wind.

  • Food intolerences/allergies.

  • Imbalance of healthy bacteria in the gut.

How To Help

Speak to your Health Visitor or Health Professional.

  • Tummy massage~ Research has shown that massaging babies with colic can reduce the strength & length of baby's crying. Baby massage can be evidently more effective than rocking, in the efforts to relieve the symptoms of Colic.

  • A warm bath.

  • Gently rock baby in your arms.

  • Use a sling/carrier in the house & when out. (baby is happier in an upright position & when close to you).

  • Hold baby so that his tummy rests on your forearm & his head is supported in the palm of your hand or in the crook of your arm.

  • Cuddle your baby. Having baby close so they can hear your heartbeat. If you are getting stressed take a break if you can Colic can be upsetting.

  • Have baby in a more upright position whilst feeding so that less air is taken in.

Image by Jude Beck
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