Is there a treatment for colic?
There is no single medicine or proven cure for colic, but
there are several measures that may help. Different babies
are comforted by different measures, and parents usually
need to try various methods to see what works.
Parents who bottle-feed their babies may want to try a different
formula. For parents who breastfeed, it's a good idea to
continue this because weaning the baby from breast milk
may make colic worse.
Some women find certain foods in their diet seem to make
colic worse and therefore they avoid the offending foods.
To soothe colicky babies, the following techniques
may be helpful:
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• |
carry baby in a front sling or back
pack |
|
• |
wrap baby snugly in a blanket |
|
• |
keep baby moving in a baby swing |
|
• |
place baby near the continuous sound
or vibrations of household appliances i.e dishwasher,
vacuum cleaner, washer-dryer or radio |
|
• |
take baby for a car ride or a walk
outside |
|
• |
provide a dummy |
|
• |
massage back or tummy |
|
• |
take a bath together – the
warm water may be comforting |
Medicines are not used to treat colic. However,
medicines may help to relieve abdominal symptoms. It may be
worth trying "colic drops" or "gripe water",
which are available without a prescription. Medication is
available to relieve trapped wind. Speak to your doctor.
Having a colicky baby can be stressful, frustrating and challenging
for any parent, particularly if it is the first child. Babies
may pick up on anxiety around them, and this may make colic
worse. It is important for parents to have support and take
a break, even for an hour or two.
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