Coping with colic can be a challenging experience for any parent. The endless hours of crying and fussiness can leave you feeling exhausted and helpless. While the exact cause of colic remains can be different, finding the right formula for your baby can significantly ease their discomfort.
This article will explore the best formula options for soothing your fussy baby and helping both of you get some much-needed rest.
What Causes Colic in Babies?
It’s only normal to hear a baby cries in the room at some point. However, it can be different for a baby with colic. Infant colic is a common issue affecting many babies, causing hours of crying and fussiness that can overwhelm both the baby and parents. While the exact cause of colic is unknown, several theories exist about what might be causing it [1].
One theory is that digestive issues cause colic. A baby with colic symptoms may have difficulty digesting their food, leading to baby gas, discomfort and crying. Some studies have found that a colic baby with colic has different gut bacteria than babies without colic symptoms, suggesting that there may be a connection between gut health and colic.
Another theory is that colic is caused by sensory overload. Babies with colic symptoms may be more sensitive to stimulation, such as bright lights or loud noises, and become overwhelmed by their surroundings.
Hormones may also play a role in colic. Some studies have found that babies with colic have higher levels of stress hormones, such as cortisol, than babies without colic. This suggests that colic may affect the baby’s ability to handle stress.
It’s important to note that colic is not caused by anything that the caregiver is doing wrong. It is a common issue that affects many babies, regardless of their caregiver’s actions.
What’s the Difference Between Colic and Normal Crying?
A colicky baby has a distinguishable pattern of crying compared to breastfed babies. Although they appear healthy and can grow normally, a colicky baby often experiences excessive crying, which usually happens at the same time of the day. In most cases, they often experience inconsolable crying in the early evening.
Colicky babies often exhibit the following:
- High-pitch excessive crying or screaming
- Inconsolable crying
- Often have a red face or pale skin around the mouth area
- They may experience stiffness in the arms and may even pull in their legs or lunch their fists.
The “Five S” Strategy for Soothing Colicky Babies
If you have determined that your crying baby is experiencing colic, finding effective ways to soothe their discomfort and address your baby’s crying is crucial. One popular strategy is the “Five S” technique, which stands for swaddling, side-stomach position, shushing, swinging, and sucking. Let’s explore the “Five S” strategy and how it can help soothe colicky babies.
- Swaddling: Wrapping your baby tightly in a blanket when your baby’s crying can help them feel secure and prevent their arms and legs from flailing, which can cause overstimulation.
- Side-stomach position: Placing your baby on their side or stomach can help them feel more secure and comfortable. However, it’s important to note that babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
- Shushing: White noise, such as the sound of a vacuum cleaner or a hair dryer, can help soothe your crying baby by recreating the whooshing sound of blood flow in the womb. Babies love these soothing sounds that can help address their crying.
- Swinging: Gentle, rhythmic movements, such as rocking your baby or using a baby swing, can help soothe their discomfort and address your baby’s crying.
- Sucking: Allowing your baby to suck on a pacifier or your finger can help soothe their need to suck and calm them down.
Best Formula Options for Babies with Colic
Finding the right formula can make a significant difference in soothing their discomfort if you’ve determined that your baby’s colic is related to their formula. In this column, we’ll explore the best formula types for babies with colic.
Hydrolyzed Formula
One option to consider is a hydrolyzed formula, broken down into smaller proteins that are easier for babies to digest. These formulas can be beneficial for babies who are sensitive to milk-based formulas.
Soy-Based Formula
Another option is a soy-based formula, which can benefit babies with a milk allergy or lactose intolerance. However, it’s important to note that some babies allergic to milk may also be allergic to soy.
Thickened Formula
For babies who are experiencing reflux, a thickened formula may be beneficial. These formulas contain rice cereal or other thickeners that can help keep food in the stomach and reduce the likelihood of reflux.
Hypoallergenic Formula
Hypoallergenic formulas are also an option for babies with colic. These formulas contain more easily digested proteins and are less likely to cause an allergic reaction.
Ultimately, the best formula for your baby will depend on their needs and digestive system. It’s vital to work closely with your pediatrician to determine the best option for your baby and to monitor their symptoms closely.
Tips for Parents on Coping with Colic
As you try to find ways to address baby colic, there are various ways that you, as a parent, can do to soothe your baby and address their condition. Here are a few things that you can do to change your baby’s life and turn her into the happiest baby that he or she could possibly be.
If you are one of the many new parents dealing with a colicky baby, coping with the constant crying and fussiness can be overwhelming. While the “Five S” strategy can be an effective way to soothe your baby’s colic, several other tips can help you manage the challenges of colic.
Warm Bath
Firstly, try giving your baby a warm bath. The warm water can help relax your baby’s muscles and soothe discomfort. Be sure to support your baby’s head and neck in the bath.
Upright Position
If your baby is experiencing reflux, try keeping them upright after feedings. Doing so can help prevent stomach contents from flowing back up into their esophagus and causing discomfort.
Baby Massage
Gently rubbing your baby’s tummy or giving them a baby massage can help alleviate their discomfort. Use gentle, circular motions as you gently rub your baby’s tummy. You can also check with your pediatrician for proper techniques.
Get Help
Sometimes, all a baby needs is the comfort of a family member. Holding your baby close and offering a gentle touch can help soothe them and make them feel secure.
Proper Diet
For breastfeeding mothers, it’s vital to consider your diet. Certain foods can cause discomfort for your baby, so try eliminating potential culprits, such as dairy or caffeine, from your diet.
Take a Break
Finally, remember that most babies cry, and it’s okay to take a break when you feel overwhelmed. If your baby cries for an extended period, it’s okay to put them down in a safe place and step away for a few minutes to take a deep breath and regroup.
When to Seek Medical Advice for Colic Baby
The times that babies cry are stressful for many parents. While colic is a common issue that affects many babies, there may be times when it’s necessary to seek medical advice. Even after trying different techniques to soothe your baby’s crying persists, it may be a sign of a more severe underlying issue. This column will discuss when to seek medical advice for your colicky baby.
Extra Fussy
Firstly, if your baby is experiencing reflux, it’s essential to consult with your pediatrician. Baby reflux can cause discomfort and lead to more crying and fussiness than usual.
Food Allergy or Intolerance
If your baby’s crying persists for more than three hours a day, and there is no apparent reason for their discomfort, it may be a sign of something more severe. In some cases, colic may indicate an underlying medical condition, such as a food allergy or intolerance.
It Affects Your Mental Health
If you are experiencing postpartum depression, seeking medical advice is essential. Postpartum depression can make it difficult to cope with the challenges of caring for a colicky baby and can significantly impact your mental health.
Intestinal Blockage
If your baby is not responding to the usual techniques, such as white noise, keeping them upright, or gently rubbing their tummy, it may be a sign of something more severe, such as an intestinal blockage.
Persistent Diarrhea or Fever
Finally, seeking medical advice is essential if other symptoms, such as fever or diarrhea, accompany your baby’s crying. These symptoms may be a sign of a more severe underlying issue.
Take Heart, Baby Colic Will Pass…
Take heart if you’re overwhelmed with a colicky baby and have sought medical advice—colic will eventually pass. Soothing a colicky baby is challenging, but several techniques can help relieve their discomfort.
If breastfeeding, consider changing your diet to eliminate potential culprits causing your baby’s discomfort. Alternatively, if you are using infant formula, consider trying different types to see if it makes a difference.
Swallowing air while feeding can cause gas and discomfort for your baby, so minimizing this is essential. Keep your baby upright during feedings and allow them to burp frequently to release any trapped air.
Remember, colic typically lasts from a few hours to a few weeks, and while it can be challenging to manage, it will eventually pass. In the meantime, focus on providing comfort and support for your baby and caring for yourself.
Conclusion
Coping with colic can be a challenging experience for both parents and babies. While there is no guaranteed cure for colic, finding the right formula for your baby can help alleviate their discomfort and make the experience more manageable. Many formula choices are available for parents to try, from soy-based formulas to hypoallergenic options.
You can alleviate your baby’s colic symptoms by using the “Five S” strategy. Coping with colic demands time and patience. With the right support and tools, you and your baby can overcome it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. We’d be happy to help you in any way we can.
