Colic Basics

Colic is sometimes called "fussy baby syndrome" because the symptoms include frequent, even unrelenting, crying. Colic usually begins at about 2 weeks of age for some babies and usually subsides around 3 or 4 months. Since babies are unable to communicate their pain, it's difficult to ascertain what the problem may be. Some researchers suggest it could be digestive problems or lactose intolerance, while others believe it could be acid reflux, pent up gas in the intestinal tract, or muscle spasms. Some babies have trouble with hormone levels, are hypersensitive to sound and light, or have an immature nervous system that needs an adjustment period before they feel comfortable.

After a trip to the doctor to be sure nothing is seriously wrong, there are several colic remedies to try. First of all, changing the feeding patterns may reduce stress for the baby. Colic can also be treated by changing from cow's milk to breast feeding, trying a hypoallergenic formula, or adding Lactase. Breast feeders should avoid caffeine or milk. Using bottles with plastic liners may reduce the amount of air swallowed and frequent burping keeps the baby from getting an upset stomach. If the colicky baby is spitting up the milk frequently, regurgitating or always shrieking after feeding, then it's possible he or she is lactose intolerant or has acid reflux disorder.

Secondly, try changing the over-stimulating environment to treat colic. Some babies have a hard time adjusting to all the sounds and lights. Swaddle your colic baby in blankets, put him or her in a front carrier rather than laying them flat and facing the ceiling, or put the baby near soft vibrations (such as next to the dryer or in the car). Give the baby a massage or put a warm water bottle on the belly. Warm baths, pacifiers and infant swings can be relaxing to the troubled infant.

Thirdly, there are some doctor-recommended colic remedies to try. Anti-reflux medication, herbal teas with chamomile or mint, anti-gas drops, homeopathic drops or "gripe water." Colic gripe water is a herbal concoction known to reduce digestive irritability.

You should visit a pediatrician if the colic lasts for more than four months. If your baby is not feeding often enough or not gaining weight, then you should seek help too. If any other symptoms run concurrent with the crying - such as fever, bloody stools or frequent diarrhea, then again, you may want to check in with your pediatrician. If you find yourself losing control and feeling angry a lot, then it wouldn't hurt for you to check in with a doctor as well, to ensure that stress isn't getting the best of you. After all, the baby isn't the only one suffering from colic pain.