Babies Cry - But Why? (Part III)
8. Colic
The term colic is often used to describe a baby who is extremely unsettled, irritable and crying on a regular basis. It is a time when all the techniques that had been working or could work to settle your baby are not working anymore. Your baby is pulling their legs up and crying a desperate sounding cry. They may stiffen their back and not want to be held. All the usual comforting measures are not working and your baby, (and most likely you) are getting more desperate. This is a difficult time for most parents and not for just first time parents. You feel useless and hope that you are not missing something serious.
There is often a good explanation for why a baby behaves in such a manner and with careful diagnosis and appropriate measures this distress can be reduced. These can include:
-"Growth spurts" (occurring for approximately 24 hours at 3 days, 7 days, 2-3 weeks and 6 weeks of age).
-The 'witching or arsenic hour' lasting for 3 - 4 hours which is usually gone by 8 -12 weeks and is thought to be connected to a baby's developing nervous system.
-Being overtired.
-Misreading your babies cues e.g. trying to feed when crying from tiredness or putting to sleep when hungry.
-Your baby's temperament.
-Being handled by an over anxious and nervous parent or carer in a tense household.
-Inner rhythm known as "circadian rhythm" not yet established.
-Over-stimulation.
-Reflux, which can also be 'silent' with no vomiting.
-Allergies and/or intolerance to certain food.
If all these options are explored and nothing is discovered, then that could be labelled as true colic, which can last until 3 months old. Not knowing why a baby is crying as well as dealing with the crying, can be extremely difficult and tiring for parents to cope with. A good support network is vital for parent's whose child suffers from colic, as it can be a very draining time both emotionally and physically.
Some Settling Methods to Try:
· Use the stroller to rock them off to sleep.
· Use an electronic swing, carrier or sling.
· Give your baby a relaxation bath either on their own or in a deep one with you. Try putting a cup of camomile tea in the bath water and a warm wash cloth over their tummy.
· Quick breast feed or suck on a pacifier.
· Go out and meet someone or take a brisk walk with them in a stroller or sling.
· Lay down with them and hold them gently.
· Play loud 'white noise' or music in their sleeping area
· Do whatever else you might think would work for your baby, making sure to take their personality into consideration. Try to stay calm yourself and always give your baby to the one who is the calmest.
· Relax in the thought that they will grow out of it - colic usually starts at 3 weeks and continues until around 3 months.
· If you are concerned about unsettled behaviour have your baby checked by your Pediatrician or Child Health Professional.
9. Release of Accumulated 'Stress'
Due to a baby's immature nervous system, overstimulation of any of their five senses through over-handling, overfeeding, loud noises, strong fragrances and excessive brightness can be overwhelming. Exposed babies to the sensations of the world gradually, as it will be less likely to be overwhelmed. This is particularly true for the prematurely born baby.
What parents can do to help themselves cope with the demands of a crying baby.
1. Have realistic expectations - all babies cry.
2. Say 'yes' to anyone that sincerely offers to help you.
3. Build social networks with other like-minded parents who have young babies and children
4. Be realistic with what you expect to get accomplished each day.
5. Slow down your pace of life, as this precious phase of nurturing your baby will not last for long.
6. Eat regular nutritional whole foods and avoid eating too much take-out.
7. Rest each day, especially in the afternoon.
8. Do some form of outdoor exercise every day.
9. Allow each parent "alone time" to do something that they truly enjoy.
10. If you are alone and your baby's crying is causing you to be extremely anxious or frustrated, put your baby safely in their crib or basket and leave the room until you are calmer. Call someone for help if you are frightened that you will hurt your baby. Staying with them when you feel this way could result in you lashing out aggressively.
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