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Infantile colic
Colic is a source of stress for many parents of newborns and infants. It is characterized by intense and frequent crying episodes in an otherwise healthy baby, often occurring during the first few months of life. In this article, we explore what colic is, its possible causes, how to recognize it, and ways to soothe your child.
Dr Chokoteu Yossa D.
10/6/20242 min read
1- What is Infantile Colic?
Colic refers to episodes of excessive and inconsolable crying in an otherwise healthy baby. These bouts of crying can last for several hours, typically occurring in the late afternoon or evening, at least three days a week, over several weeks.
2- How to Recognize Colic
Intense, prolonged crying that is difficult to soothe.
The baby seems to have abdominal pain (arching the back or pulling legs toward the belly).
Crying episodes primarily occur in the late afternoon or evening.
The baby may have gas or a bloated abdomen.
3- Possible Causes of Colic
The exact cause of colic remains unknown, but several hypotheses exist:
Immature digestive system: The newborn’s digestive system is still developing, which can cause discomfort.
Sensitivity to milk: Some babies may react to certain components in breast milk or formula, leading to colic.
Gas buildup: Trapped intestinal gas can cause pain and discomfort.
Overfeeding or underfeeding: An improper feeding schedule may trigger colic.
Maternal anxiety: It has been suggested that maternal anxiety, particularly with first-time mothers, may contribute to colic. Infants are sensitive to their mother’s emotions and may express the stress they perceive.
4- How to Soothe Colic
While colic is not harmful to the baby’s health, it can be exhausting for parents. Here are some ways to relieve your baby’s discomfort:
Holding and rocking the baby: Physical contact can help soothe the baby and provide reassurance.
Gentle massages: Massaging the belly clockwise can help release gas and relax the baby.
Changing feeding positions: If breastfeeding, try different positions to see if they reduce discomfort. For bottle-fed babies, consider using anti-colic nipples.
Warm baths: A relaxing bath can help calm the baby and ease colic symptoms.
Medical consultation: If the colic persists or worsens, consult a pediatrician to rule out any underlying issues.
5- When to Consult a Pediatrician
While colic is usually harmless, it is essential to seek medical advice if:
The crying is accompanied by fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.
The baby refuses to eat or is not gaining weight.
The crying seems unusual or different from previous episodes.
Conclusion
Colic is a challenging phase for parents, but it typically resolves by 3 to 4 months of age. In the meantime, there are ways to ease your baby’s discomfort. For personalized medical advice and support, do not hesitate to consult the Centre Pédiatrique de Bonapriso.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us at 695502537.
