Getting to grips with colic

Colic is a common and generally harmless condition in babies, but can be very stressful for parents. Usually characterised by inconsolable crying, it can be very difficult to soothe and comfort babies that suffer from colic and while there is no real cure, most babies outgrow the condition by the time they are three or four months old. However, during this time, it can be very difficult for parents to manage and can cause friction in the household - an atmosphere that will not make it any easier to pacify your child. If you're a new parent, here are a few things to expect from a baby with colic and advice on how to manage your own emotions.



The primary symptom of colic is constant crying, sometimes for several hours a day, starting from when your baby is a few weeks old. Colic isn't usually painful for babies but several factors may indicate discomfort. These include the arching of the back, drawing up of the legs, stiffness, fist clenching and passing wind. Some of these symptoms may be soothed by making simple changes in your baby's life - for example, burping your baby after feeding, sitting him or her upright while you bottle feed, maintaining a comfortable room temperature (around 18 degrees Celsius is recommended) and treating itches and pain, like nappy rash.

If addressing these symptoms does not stop your baby from crying, visit your GP who may suggest possible treatments with which you can experiment. All babies are different so the same treatment will not always work. However, there are a variety of ways to address colic and one of these may help soothe your baby. They include holding your baby a lot and carrying them often, as babies are often soothed by constant touch and movement. Your doctor may also recommend getting a baby swing, singing to your baby and playing music, or taking him or her for a drive. Warm water may also prove comforting so try giving your baby a warm bath during a particularly bad bout of crying.



While all these suggestions may help calm your baby, its also important for parents to address any stress or frustration they may be feeling as a result of dealing with colic. Mothers and fathers should recognise when they need some time away from treating a baby with colic and arrange to take a break while the other parent, a close friend or a relative takes charge. Your family GP or health visitor may also be able to recommend support services for parents dealing with colic so there's no need to feel that your situation is inescapable. After a few months, most babies outgrow the symptoms of colic so you and your family will soon be able to get along with a life in which constant crying is no longer a feature.



The author of this article is a part of a digital blogging team who work with brands like Bupa. The contents of this article are of a general nature only and do not constitute specific advice.  This article does not take into account your circumstances or needs and must not be relied upon in place of appropriate professional advice.