HealthNews Dozen: Helpful Home Remedies for Colicky Babies

Colic is one of the most frustrating experiences of parenthood. Constant crying or screaming that seems to go on without reason or resolution can not only be nerve-shattering but heartbreaking for parents who simply want to ease the baby’s frustrations and make him or her happy. While it may seem to be a complicated problem at the time, a few simple pieces of advice might help.

The editors of Consumer Guide have devised a list of 20 home remedies and simple solutions that may ease or rid a baby of colic if applied with calm and care. Though the authors of the list note that a doctor’s advice should be sought in most cases, these tips might avoid a trip to the pediatrician’s office and some frayed nerves in the meantime.

There is no conclusive cause for colic, which often occurs in the first weeks or months of a baby’s life and often happens at a specific and regular point in the days or nights. Symptoms vary between babies, and possible causes have been debated by medical professionals for many years. Though the excessive crying may not even be a cause for concern, the crying in and of itself is frustrating for both parent and child. And no certain root cause means that no medicine is available; therefore, some simple home remedies may help everyone involved.

Since colic is a frustrating activity for the baby, it is also tiring and may cause the baby to be sleepier than usual. When the baby can be soothed to sleep, a mild rocking motion may do the trick. It is crucial not to stimulate the baby with too much motion, as soothing efforts, even as simple as placing a mildly warm towel over the baby, are best. A positive force is also direct contact and the warmth of a body near the baby, as that lets the baby know that he or she is not alone. If those options don’t work, it is advisable to leave the baby in a sleeping position, and when soothing motions or actions do not work, walk away. The child will eventually wear out and need to sleep.

It is important to keep the baby on a somewhat regular schedule during colicky periods, which will allow for better tracking of the times and conditions under which the baby experiences the bouts. Keeping track of everything from the baby’s weight, temperature, and surroundings also provides more information for the pediatrician should assistance be sought.

Some formula changes might be simple enough to do the trick, as some studies show that cow’s milk contains a protein that might irritate the baby’s stomach and cause discomfort. Other doctors might recommend a small amount of a fiber like Citrucel be added to the baby’s formula, though this is something that should be cleared with a doctor. The best recommendation might be to remove all dairy products from the baby’s diet, though the pediatrician would need to recommend a substitute.

The most critical thing for any parent with a colicky baby to remember is to stay calm. Know that this is a normal process for many babies, and though it might threaten a parent’s sanity at times, it is crucial that the baby have a calm presence nearby. Whether it means that the parent calls for backup and goes for a walk to remain calm or simply steps outside for a moment of fresh air, it is important not to become too frustrated. The Consumer Guide editors even go so far as to recommend a shower, which is soothing for the parent, and the sound of the water might even soothe the baby.

No matter how normal colic may be, it is important to check in with the baby’s pediatrician. He or she may have specific advice, but most likely, it is simply something that should be in the child’s record.