Colic

Things to remember about colic

• You didn’t cause the colic, so try not to feel guilty.
• Colic almost always goes away by 3 months of age. It should go away by the time your baby is 6 months old.
• You can try many things to soothe your baby.
• Giving your baby extra attention won’t “spoil” him or her.
• Just because your baby has colic doesn’t mean he or she is unhealthy.
• What can I do to help my baby stop crying?
• You can try a number of things to soothe your baby. These may include changing the way you feed or hold your baby. The tips listed in the box below may help.

Tips on soothing your baby

• Feed your baby in an upright position.
• Burp your baby often.
• If you are breastfeeding, try making small changes in your own diet. Try to limit spicy foods, citrus fruits or caffeine.
• Rock your baby in a rocking chair or cradle.
• Put your baby in a wind-up swing (make sure your baby can support his or her head).
• Give your baby a warm bath.
• Give your baby a pacifier.
• Gently rub your baby’s stomach.
• Wrap or swaddle your baby in a soft blanket.
• Put your baby in a stroller and go for a walk.
• Go for a drive with your baby in the car seat.

Call your family doctor if:

• Your baby’s cry changes from a fussy one to a painful one.
• Your baby stops gaining weight.
• Your baby has a fever.
• You’re afraid you might hurt your baby.

Source
Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff.
American Academy of Family Physicians