Got Colic?
One quiet evening while you're preparing for bed your little angel begins to cry and cry and cry. Two hours, one feeding, two diaper changes and three burps later your little one is still crying! What could be wrong? If your otherwise healthy baby cries for at least three hours a day, around the same time of day, at least three times a week for more than three weeks, colic could be the culprit.
Colic is defined as excessive, unexplained crying in an otherwise healthy baby. There is no known cause for colic and it is not related to gas, although gas may intensify the crying episode. Colic is considered normal and it usually subsides around 3 months of age. However, some babies have experienced colic well beyond the 3 month mark.
Caring for a colicky baby can be very stressful, it is important to remember that this is only a phase and your child will grow out of it. As a parent, you may have feelings of frustration and guilt but it is not your fault. Your baby is simply trying to communicate a need. So calm down, breathe deep and remember, this is only a phase.
TIPSThe cause of colic is unknown.Colic usually begins a few weeks after birth and ends around 3 months of age.Gender does not play a role in the development of colic.Breastfed babies can experience colic.Smoking during and after pregnancy increases your baby's chances of developing colic.Predictable crying episodes, intense crying and posture changes are all symptoms of colic.When colic hits, try rocking the baby, go out for an evening stroll, go for a ride in the car, play soothing music, or give the baby a nice bath.
"Colic" Parker S. in Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics: A Handbook for Primary Care. Parker S, Zuckerman B and Augustyn M (eds). Lippincott Williams and Wilkins: 2005., "Could Your Baby's Crying Be Colic?", www.webmd.com
Published by April Smith
I am a 29 year old freelance writer and blogger. I enjoy writing about relationships, marriage and love. View profile
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