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Colic

 

 

What is colic?

Colic is a general term for uncontrollable crying in an otherwise healthy baby. About 20 per cent of all babies suffer with colic.

It's hard to know who finds colic harder, a parent or a baby. A colicky baby is obviously in distress, uncomfortable, and can't soothe him or herself. However, it is very distressing for parents to listen to their babies cry for hours on end without cause and not knowing how to help them.


What causes colic?

Colic is no longer thought to be due to pain, despite the excessive crying. However, the cause of colic isn't really known. In the past it was thought to be related to the baby’s developing digestive system, but there is little evidence to support this. Painful wind and lactose intolerance have also been suggested as possible causes of colic, but again, there is little evidence. Some schools of thought attribute colic to a baby's individual temperament, making some babies react to normal stimulation or changes by crying, whereas others show little reaction at all.
 

Symptoms †

  • Excessive crying (from around the age of 3 weeks to 3 to 4 months)

  • Lifting of the head

  • Drawing of the legs up to the tummy

  • Reddening of face

  • Passing of wind



Natural remedies

  • Homeopathy has traditionally been used to help with colic and wind. Ask your practitioner or doctor for advice on how homeopathy can help you.∏

  • Manipulation - chiropractic spinal manipulation therapy or osteopathy by a qualified practitioner may help relieve symptoms.

  • Aromatherapy and tummy massage using lavender oil may help relieve the symptoms of colic.

 

Other ways to help

  • If breastfeeding, try cutting out dairy products for a while to see if that helps or look into using a low or non-lactose milk formula.

  • Carry your baby in a front sling or back pack.

  • Keep your baby moving in a baby swing.

  • Try to soothe the baby with continuous noise or vibrations from household appliances like the dishwasher, vacuum cleaner or tumble dryer.

  • Take your baby for a car ride or a walk outside.

  • Give your baby a dummy to suck on.

  • Bathing your baby in warm water may be comforting.

  • If your baby suffers from persistent colic, you should consult your GP.

 

† Medical referral is advisable if symptoms worsen or persist.

∏ On no account should prescribed medication be discontinued, except under a doctor’s supervision.