How to Help a Colicky Baby

According to the New Parents Guide, a baby is considered to have colic if he or she cries for a period of three hours at least three days out of the week. No parents like to think of their child in pain. The situation can quickly become frustrating if a parent isn't sure what to do to soothe the baby.

Make sure your baby has colic before you begin treatment for it. Other than excessive crying, colic symptoms include the clenching of fists, a red face, pulling the legs up to the stomach, passing gas and the appearance that the baby may be in pain. Sometimes a baby may have acid reflux disease, which also has similar symptoms, so it is important to get a doctor's opinion first.

When my second daughter was born she cried inconsolably. The doctor encouraged me to try different formulas that were considered low-allergy formulas. The doctor also advised me to feed my daughter in a more upright position and burp her a little more frequently than I did my first daughter. This helps to reduce the amount of gas that may be causing your baby pain.

Massages were also helpful for my daughter. There are two massages you can try. You can lay your baby over your lap so that your baby is on his or her stomach. Then rub the baby's back. You can also give your baby a warm bath and then rub his stomach in a circular motion. After the massage, you can swaddle your baby in a baby blanket. Swaddling is comforting to a baby.

Motion is also said to help babies that are suffering from colic. You can set your baby in a swing, take your baby for a walk in a stroller or drive your baby around town for half an hour.

Try a medication if the above suggestions are not working. I used over-the-counter dissolvable colic tablets with my daughter, which seemed to help a little. Many parents prefer, however, to use an all-natural product containing gripe water. Gripe water comes in liquid form and is used for both colic and acid reflux. Always discuss these medications with your pediatrician before you use them, especially if your infant has any other medical issues.

You may want to get some temporary help from a friend or family member. Colic usually only lasts the first three to four months of your baby's life. Getting some help during these months will help you stay positive and allow you to get any sleep that you are becoming deprived of.

Warning:
If your baby gets a fever or stops gaining weight at any time, you should see your pediatrician right away.

References:
"Does My Baby Have Colic?" The New Parents Guide.
"Colic," FamilyDoctor.org.