There is nothing more heart wrenching to a parent then hearing their young baby crying and not able to sooth and quiet it down. Some times of the day seem worse than others. I know this through first had experience. While our first son was a very happy baby, our second son was just the opposite. What is important is to understand what colic is and what it is not, and to know that it will eventually pass. Our second son is now six months and a very happy content experience, but oh what an experience those first few months were.
First, what is colic?
Some babies are fussy or high need and like a lot of contact. A lot of times this is misinterpreted as colic. A colicky baby cries when there is no apparent reason. Whereas a high need baby will stop crying once you figured out what is wrong -hunger, tired, wet diapers, fever to name a few - a colicky baby will not. Our doctor at first thought our son had gas, but gas drops did not help at all. Common indications of colic include crying for no apparent reason and lasting for at least 3 weeks, periods of crying 3 or more times per week and the periods in which the baby cries is at least 3 hours per day. The good news is colic usually disappears at three or four months. Our son was about four months when the symptoms started subsiding.
Calming a colicky baby
While there is no cure, there are some things that can be done that may help a baby with colic. Try baby wearing. Carrying your baby around in a sling may help comfort them. They may feel more reassured and safe. For many babies the rocking motion and swaying motion of being carried around may help. Other babies love music. Try different soothing songs as you cuddle and comfort your baby. Sometimes water might help, give you baby a warm gentle bath. One other technique you can try is the 'football hold'. To do this you hold your baby in one arm, with it head in the palm of the hand or the crook of the arm and your forearm pressing gently against his or hers stomach. This can also help with gassy babies as the gentle pressure can help relieve some of the gas. Make sure you support your child's back with your other hand or against your body. A life saver for us was gripe water. Until recently it has been hard to get in the U.S. but has been used a lot in Europe. Make sure you check with your doctor before trying or introducing anything new.
Summary
If your child exhibits signs of colic, always check with a health care profession for correct diagnosis. Taking care of a colicky baby can be very time-consuming, nerve wrenching, and exhausting to both parents. If you are lucky enough to have family around try to take advantage of them to get a short break. Remember, just because you baby has colic does not mean you are not a good parent. Life happens and colic happens. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
More information on Colic is available in the Baby section of More4kids - Parenting and Family Information and Resources.
Mr. Heath is a writer and the chief editor at More4kids.info, a parenting and family resource.
