Babies that have colic are generally in a lot of pain
and seeing them this way makes every parent want to comfort them, despite
the fact that no matter what the parent might do it is unlikely to soothe
the baby. Because of this it is easy for parents to get frustrated and
feel completely helpless because their baby is suffering and they can do
nothing to help. However, there are some tips that can help soothe a colicky
baby, even if it is just a little bit and doing something will likely make
you feel better, too.
First things first is for the parents to remain relaxed,
that is as relaxed as is possible after dealing with incessant crying.
Babies are really very smart and they will notice if you are tense or stressed
out and this will only make their situation worse. So, if you and your
spouse can't seem to deal with the colicky baby on your own simply call
a parent, friend, or babysitter to relieve you for a couple of hours. This
will give you a break to regain your composure, take a nap, or simply de-stress
so that you can help your baby by being as calm as possible.
Another suggestion is to buy some gas medication. There
are a wide variety of gas medications on the market as well as herbal remedies
however most doctors agree that they are all worth a try in a colicky baby
to try and help baby and parents get some rest not to mention relieving
baby's discomfort. You will want to talk to your pediatrician before administering
any of these gas relieving drugs to your baby, but once you get the go
ahead you can rest assured that many times these gas drugs are very helpful.
So, get on a schedule with the gas medicine and hope for a restful and
happy baby.
Some moms and dads find that massage is the answer to
their prayers when it comes to soothing their baby with colic. This is
because massage has several beneficial properties like reducing stress
in the baby as well as relieving gas pain and pressure. There are in fact
certain massages that involve the baby's legs and belly that will allow
them to pass the gas that is causing them so much pain. This is a perfectly
natural and easy way for many parents to relieve the discomfort of their
colicky baby.
Yet another solution that is helpful for some babies with
colic is swaddling. Babies were in a confined space in the womb and many
young babies will gain comfort from being swaddled and feeling this security.
When the baby is swaddled and relaxed he will be better able to pass gas
and relieve the pressure and discomfort. If all else fails, give swaddling
a try because it might help, and it certainly won't hurt!
Other babies gain some relief from rocking, walking, swinging,
or simply being held by mom or dad. For some reason many parents have found
that movement helps soothe a colicky baby however the verdict is still
out as to whether or not it is the movement that relieves discomfort or
the movement that distracts that actually soothes the baby.
When your baby has colic you will feel frustrated, helpless,
and maybe feel like pulling your hair out. But, if you give the above tips
a try more than likely at least one of them will help somewhat to relieve
your baby's discomfort and some of your stress as well. So, what are you
waiting for? Give these tips a try!
About the Author
Vickie Barnes is a colic veteran of two colicky babies.
Please visit her website ColicHelp.com,
for more support and resources for dealing with colic.
