Colic is a common condition among newborns and infants that is marked by episodes of uncontrollable, inconsolable crying for no apparent reason. This crying can go on for several months, but it will usually go away once your baby is three or four months old. Though there is no proven treatment for colic, there are some things you can do to ease your baby’s discomfort.
Medications
Sometimes, certain medications can help to relieve the symptoms of colic. However, there are some treatments that work for some babies but not for others. Here are some of the most common medications that you can try:
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Gas-relief medications: Gas relief medications, such as simethicone, are available over-the-counter and can sometimes work to relieve the symptoms of colic if they are related to gas. If the symptoms are not gas-related, this medication will likely not help.
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Probiotics: Some of the theories about what could possibly cause colic involve a disruption in the balance of good and bad bacteria in your baby’s digestive tract. If this is the case, taking an over-the-counter probiotic may help to relieve your baby’s symptoms.
Always be sure to talk with your baby’s pediatrician before giving them any medications.
Home Remedies
Some parents have reported that their babies have found relief from their symptoms by using some alternative remedies. These include:
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Herbal teas
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Other herbal remedies, such as fennel oil
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Homeopathic remedies
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Sugar water
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Gripe water, which is a mixture of water and herbs
Before exploring any of these alternative medication routes, always make sure to talk with your baby’s doctor to make sure that the method is completely safe for your child.
Tips for Soothing
If you are trying to soothe your crying baby, here are some tips that may help:
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Hold your baby: Cuddling can be very soothing for some babies, especially when swaddled in a light blanket.
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Sing to your baby: Soft tunes can be comforting for your baby, whether you are singing them or if you play some recorded music.
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Turn up background noise: Some babies will cry less when they hear a steady background noise, such as a fan or a recording of ambient noise.
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Use gentle heat or touch: A warm bath may help. You can also gently rub your baby’s belly.
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Offer a pacifier: Sucking is soothing for many babies.
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Keep your baby in motion: Gently rocking your baby in your arms or placing them in an infant swing may help to calm them down. You can also take a walk with your baby or buckle your baby in the car seat and take a drive.
Sometimes, no matter what you do, you won’t be able to soothe your crying baby. In these situations, try to stay calm and remember that the colic will go away eventually.
