Baby Colic Tips

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Baby Colic Tips

Baby Colic is not a disease; it is a condition that causes otherwise healthy babies to cry inconsolably, usually in the evening and at night. Doctors are not sure what causes colic, but it is believed to be caused by abdominal pain due to intestinal gas.

All babies cry, so how do you know if your baby has colic? Colic usually follows what is sometimes referred to as the "rule of three". The "rule of three" is: Crying starts in the first three months after birth and continues for more than three hours per day and more than three days per week.

Last Updated -15th December 2005

Fortunately, colic does go away as the baby matures, general by the end of the third month. Although there is no single way you can relieve a colicky baby, there are a number of things that you can try. Unfortunately, what works one time may not work the next time. You will need to be creative and persistent.

Home Treatment

Make sure your baby is getting enough to eat, but not too much, as the problem may be hunger or overeating.

Make sure your baby isn't swallowing too much air while eating. Your should feed your baby slowly, holding him or her almost upright and burping him or her periodically. It is a good idea to prop your baby up for 15 minutes after feeding.

If bottle-fed, use nipples with holes large enough to drip cold formula at least 1 drop per second. Babies will swallow more air from around the nipple if the hole is too small.

Do not overheat baby formula. It is best heated to body temperature.

Babies need to suck on something for up to 2 hours per day to be satisfied. If feedings do not allow enough time for sucking, use a pacifier.

Keep a regular routine for meals, naps and playtime.

Mealtime should be quiet and undisturbed by bright lights and loud noises.

Make sure your baby's diaper is clean and not wet.

Make sure your baby isn't too hot or too cold.

Make sure your baby isn't bored.

Putting your baby stomach-down over your knee or forearm may be helpful.

Calm your baby with a car ride or a walk outside.

Place your baby near the hum of a dishwasher, aquarium, clothes dryer, etc. may have a soothing effect.

Don't worry about spoiling a baby during the first 3 months; comforting a baby makes both of you feel better.

Most important, stay calm and try to relax. If you start to lose control, take a minute to calm down. Never shake a baby as it can cause permanent brain damage or death.

Colic generally does not require professional treatment unless accompanied by vomiting, diarrhea or other signs of a more serious ills. If colic lasts more than 4 hours a day, or if you feel like you need help, contact your doctor for advice. In rare cases, colic may be so severe that your doctor may consider medication.

Disclaimer: The Baby Colic Tips / Information presented and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of Tips And Treats . com and/or its partners.

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