Infant colic; Introducing the best and fastest method of treatment

14/12/2024
6 minutes

Infant colic or infant colic is one of the most common problems in the first months of a baby's life, which can make parents worry and anxious. This condition, which is usually accompanied by intense and continuous crying, occurs mostly in the evening and at night and sometimes lasts for several hours. Although the exact cause of infant colic has not yet been fully determined, factors such as milk sensitivity, gas accumulation in the digestive tract, or the development of the infant's nervous system can play a role in its occurrence. Proper management of this state and understanding the needs of the baby not only helps to calm the child, but also gives more confidence and peace to the parents.

What is baby colic?

Infant colic is a condition in which a healthy baby cries for a long time without a clear reason. This condition is usually seen in babies under three months and improves by about four to six months. Although colic is challenging for parents, it is usually harmless and can be managed with calmness and patience. In case of persistence or concern, consult best pediatrician recommendation It will be.

Causes of infant colic

· Digestive problems: prematurity of the baby's digestive system or sensitivity to some substances in breast milk or formula.

· Air swallowing: When the baby is feeding or crying, he swallows a lot of air, which leads to bloating and abdominal pain.

· Lack of development of the nervous system: the baby is overly sensitive to environmental stimuli, which leads to crying and restlessness.

· Food allergies: There is a possibility of sensitivity to lactose or proteins in breast milk or formula.

· Emotional and environmental factors: stress or anxiety in parents affects the baby and makes him irritable.

Infant colic symptoms

Symptoms of infantile colic generally include severe and frequent crying that usually occurs without a specific cause in healthy infants. These cries often intensify in the evening or at night and last for several hours. A baby's face becomes red and flushed when crying, and he stiffens his body or folds his legs toward his stomach. The baby's abdomen usually looks bloated and hard, and sometimes there are rumbling sounds or passing of gas. The baby shows extreme restlessness in this state and it is difficult to calm him down even by breastfeeding, rocking or changing the position. In some cases, a certain pattern is seen in these symptoms, so that the cries occur at a certain time of the day or week. This condition makes parents feel helpless, but in most cases, infant colic is a temporary condition and is not a sign of a serious illness.

Diagnosis of infant colic

Diagnosis of infant colic is based on clinical symptoms. A baby crying for more than three hours a day, at least three days a week and for three consecutive weeks can be a sign of baby colic. To make sure your baby's crying isn't caused by another cause, such as an infection, serious digestive problems, or a food allergy, your doctor will review your baby's medical history and perform a physical exam. In most cases, no serious physical problem is found and colic is considered a transient and harmless condition that will improve as the baby grows.

Treatment of infant colic

Treatment for infant colic usually focuses on relieving symptoms and providing comfort to the baby and parents, as the condition often resolves over time as the baby grows. Effective methods to reduce colic symptoms include:

· Change in breastfeeding: If the baby is breastfed, the mother should reduce the consumption of irritating foods such as dairy, caffeine, or carbonated foods. In case of using powdered milk, it helps to change the type of powdered milk in consultation with the doctor.

· Expelling the air in the stomach: after every meal of milk, keep the baby in a vertical position and burp him to expel the swallowed air.

· Creating relaxation: using techniques such as gently rocking the baby, soothing air, gentle massage of the abdomen or placing the baby on the stomach when waking up is useful.

· Warm bath: A warm bath helps to calm the baby and reduce restlessness.

· Antiflatulent medications: Some over-the-counter medications such as simethicone are effective in reducing gas and relieving colic symptoms, but should be used in consultation with a doctor.

· Regular schedule for sleeping and feeding: creating a regular schedule for sleeping and feeding the baby prevents irritability and excessive crying.

· Parental support: Parents should manage their stress and seek help from family members or professionals if needed, because parental relaxation helps to improve the baby's condition.

Frequently asked questions Infant colic

Is baby colic dangerous?

Infant colic is usually not dangerous and will improve on its own. However, it is challenging for parents and will cause parents anxiety.

Colic occurs in older babies?

Colic is usually seen in babies under three months of age and naturally improves by six months of age. This condition is rarely seen in babies older than six months.

When should you see a doctor for baby colic?

If your baby's crying is accompanied by unusual symptoms or other problems, such as fever, diarrhea, or vomiting, or if colic persists and is severe, you should see a doctor to check for other problems.

Is there a medicine to treat infantile colic?

Currently, there are no drugs specifically designed to treat infantile colic. However, some antiflatulent drugs are useful in reducing gas and relieving colic symptoms, but should be used under the supervision of a doctor.

Conclusion

Infant colic is a natural stage in the development of many babies that, although challenging for parents, usually improves with time and the baby's growth. The most important thing in dealing with colic is patience and calmness. By using appropriate relief methods and proper care, symptoms can be reduced and anxiety and stress can be avoided. Also, if colic is accompanied by unusual symptoms or lasts a long time, it is necessary to consult a doctor to investigate any serious concerns.