Does my baby have colic?
Just What Is Colic – And Does My Baby Have It?
There are few things more nerve wracking than a crying baby, particularly when nothing you do seems to console him. But, how do you know when your baby’s symptoms are just a bit of a sore tummy, mild reflux or actually colic? And, just what is colic, anyway?
This is something very close to my heart at the moment. My first born was a “happy chucker”. She slept well and ate well and was a very happy baby overall. My second born though… oh my word. Weeks in hospital, scans and xrays, multiple specialists… all because of colic and food allergies (colic and allergies often go hand in hand). I had heard of colic but never really took much notice of what having a “colic baby” meant for parents.
No one knows exactly what causes colic. One thing that seems clear is that most babies who are experiencing colic have a stomach ache with a hard to-the-touch and bloated tummies. Many are gassy, though a baby won’t cry so inconsolably every time he has gas, so it is clearly gas plus something, though just what, is not clear.
Even though we don’t know what colic really is, it is hard to miss when your child is experiencing it. The inconsolable crying usually begins in the late afternoon or early evening and often lasts until the baby finally falls asleep for the night/ early hours of the morning, exhausted. Colic typically begins between two and three weeks of age, and is over its worst by twelve to sixteen weeks, though there are babies who start later and end later. A colicky baby will typically draw his knees up to his chest, clench his fists and scream. He may act like he wants the breast or bottle, but reject it as soon as you it’s in his mouth. You will get the sense that your child is frantic, and needs something very badly, but doesn’t know what.
If you believe your baby has colic, it is wise to take him to a doctor. There is no cure for colic, but you should rule out other causes, such as an allergy to formula or some other gastric disorder.
Once you know that your baby has colic, though there is no cure, there are some remedies you can try to at least help ease it. Most colic babies love to be held or on their tummies. When they are young and can’t be left to sleep on their tummies (because of the possibility of SIDs), it is recommended that you lay them on your own tummy, or put baby in a carrier/baby sling. You can raise the head of the cot or bassinet a little which can help with any reflux symptoms as well. If you have spoken to your doctor, they may recommend some medication to help. All colic medication takes time to actually work so if you go down this route, give it between 2-4 weeks before judging the success of it. Even something as simple as using a dummy for comfort can sometimes help your little one to sleep a bit long - which gives mummy a little more relief and rest too.
One thing I will say is, talk about it with other Mums. Remember you are never alone, colic is more common than we realise. Hang in there and I promise, this will come to pass.