If you suspect your baby has baby colic, and is not just crying, here is a guide to common baby colic symptoms. Also included are some treatments you can try to help a baby suffering from colic. Some babies can be soothed more easily and more frequently than others, while some simply have to tire themselves out with their crying. If you suspect acid reflux or a food allergy, intolerance, or other condition is contributing to baby’s overall health and demeanor, contact your pediatrician.
Symptoms of Baby Colic
Extended Crying Sessions
The main and most obvious symptom of colic is a baby that cries for more than three hours, without stopping. When this three-hour crying happens three or more times a week for three consecutive weeks, these are good indicators that a baby has colic.
Red Face
A baby who has colic may appear to have a red face, from all of the crying.
Clenched Fists
A baby who has colic may show more physical signs, including clenched fists.
Rapid Leg Movements
Some babies are just active and love to move their legs and feet. Others, who cry for more than three hours a day and look like they are trying to jog while lying down may be trying to relieve themselves of a gas bubble.
Different Day, Same Time
Babies who start their extended crying sessions at the same time of day could also be suffering from colic.
Treatment for Baby Colic
While there is no actual treatment in the form of a colic medication*, parents and caregivers can try to soothe and comfort a baby with baby colic. Please note that some babies will need to cry it out until they tire and fall asleep, and there is no way to comfort them first. Try what you can, solicit help from family members, and do not stress too much about baby colic. See which of these at-home treatments your baby likes the best.
*There are homeopathic remedies, but babies younger than four months should consume nothing beyond breastmilk or baby formula.
Infant Massage
Some babies with colic will respond to an infant massage.
Soothe Your Baby
Soothing your baby may also help. Consider soft music or singing (don’t worry, baby loves your voice, even if you don’t). Rocking baby, carrying baby close to you in a baby sling, or walking around with baby in the fresh air may also be soothing.
Babies may also be soothed by baby swings, swaddling or a car ride, if the are too sensitive to being touched or held while experiencing a bout of colic.
Reducing Triggers
Some situations can trigger baby colic. Overfeeding a baby and improper burping could trigger colic. If you suspect baby is suffering from allergies or a food sensitivity to food in mother’s milk or in formula, consult your pediatrician.
Sources
Dr. Greene, http://www.drgreene.org
MedicineNet.com, http://www.medicinenet.com/colic/article.htm
Personal Experience
Children’s Health, WebMed.com, http://children.webmd.com/tc/colic-overview
