Colic

Colic occurs at least 3 days a week and often, none of what parents do seems to help them feel better. It is certain that colic in infants is annoying for both parents and babies, but we must always keep in mind that their duration is very short. They usually appear at 3 to 6 weeks of age and subside in the fourth month of life. It is important for parents to know everything about colic as the intense crying of babies has many effects on the psychology of the parents and especially on the mother, where it can be a cause for possible postpartum depression.

Symptoms

In general, all babies are a bit grumpy, but colic is more serious. Their symptoms include: Sudden, intense and continuous crying that lasts more than 3 hours. Contraction of the legs towards the abdomen and clenched fists. Swollen and tense abdomen. Gases but also intestinal movements.

Causes

The causes of colic in infants are not yet known in the medical community. Probably due to the consumption of foods by the breastfeeding mother, high in protein. Also, factors such as the baby’s nervous or digestive system that may be “immature”, ingestion of air during feeding, any food allergies such as milk (when the baby is not breastfeeding), but also the baby’s exposure to nicotine during pregnancy.

Treatment

Review your diet! Try to avoid caffeine, fizzy drinks, dairy products, citrus fruits, soy products, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and spicy foods. Lift your baby’s head during feeding / breastfeeding and hold it for a long time afterwards. If you are giving your baby formula / milk powder, ask your pediatrician to recommend a brand that is not based on cow’s milk and It is not fortified with iron. Hold the baby in your arms and try to comfort him. Alternatively offer a pacifier, take a warm bath, go for a walk with the baby (either indoors or by car), put on some soft baby music or classical music and use a crib to relax. Medications are not indicated. for colic in infants, although simethicone (infacolic) supplements may help.

Eliminating gas-causing foods and using supportive herbs or homeopathic remedies can help your baby’s colic. In some cases, colic in newborns can be caused by a food allergy that you are unaware of and you may need to change the brand of formula. Your pediatrician can help you find nutritious hypoallergenic foods for your baby. If you are breastfeeding, eliminating foods that can cause gas or allergies from your diet can also help. In addition, playing soft music, rocking your baby, or using “white noise” (for example, a dryer or even a vacuum cleaner) can soothe your baby’s crying. A quiet, low-light environment can help calm the baby. Use such tactics under the supervision of a treating physician and inform your pediatrician of any changes or alternative treatments you are considering. Herbs are a way to strengthen and stimulate the body’s systems, although many herbs may be safe for them. Adults may not be suitable for infants. As with any treatment, you should consult your pediatrician before starting treatment. At NutriMedical we have an herbal specially designed for babies with colic. This product contains herbs such as Chamomile (Matricaria chamomile L.), fennel (Foeniculum vulgare), anise (Pimpinella anisum L.), honeysuckle (Melissa officinalis L.) and lemon balm, which have soothing and relaxing properties. We are talking about Happy Tummy syrup. Specifically, anise and fennel are one of the most important herbs against gas, bloating and facilitating the digestive process. Ask your pediatrician for advice on determining the right dose for your baby. A lukewarm bath with essential oils can help you relax a colic-stricken baby. Add 3 to 4 drops of lavender essential oil or lemon balm to the water at least 10 minutes before the baby comes in contact with the water. He wants special care not to let the insoluble oils come in contact with the baby’s nose, mouth and eyes. Massaging your baby’s tummy can help him feel better and get rid of gas. With gentle, slow and circular movements make clockwise movements from top to bottom.