A newborn baby with colic cries inconsolably, despite everything its mother has done to ease the fussiness. The crying usually lasts for a long period of time, easily more than three hours, and roughly occurs at the same time every day. As many as twenty five percent of babies suffer from colic, and there is no known cause. A bout of colic can be an extremely stressful experience but fortunately, it is a temporary condition. The symptoms usually improve by three months of age, and are gone at about four to five months.

The Symptoms and Diagnosis of Colic

If your baby has developed a pattern of intense fussiness with a sometimes tense body, it could very well be colic, but you should never assume there is not an underlying problem. Make an appointment with your doctor and go prepared to let him know about eating, sleeping, and crying patterns. He can perform a physical exam to rule out another health issue. If he finds no problem, be grateful, and be prepared to deal with a stretch of stormy weather.

Dealing with Colic

Although there is no cure, there are a variety of things a parent can do to help a colicky baby.

• Try feeding your baby more frequently, before he has a chance to get very hungry. Feed him in as upright a position as possible, and burp him frequently.

• If you are breastfeeding, make sure he nurses thoroughly from one breast before switching to the other. The later milk has a higher nutritional value and will be more satisfying.

• If you are bottle feeding, make sure the hole in the nipple is not so large as to make your baby gulp and draw in extra air.

• Offer your baby a pacifier. The sucking can soothe him.

• Hold your baby close and snuggle him. Carry him in a baby sling. Wrap him closely in a lightweight blanket. Research indicates that closely swaddled babies sleep better.

• Movement can soothe a baby. Walk with him; rock him; sway with him; take him for a ride in the car.

• Music can also soothe a baby. Sing to him or play a CD softly.

• Warmth can relax a baby. Give him a warm bath or place a warm baby bottle or towel on his belly.

• Some baby medicines for gas relief help, but never give your baby any medicine without first asking your doctor.

• Some that say probiotics that balance the digestive system may be a wise move. Ask your doctor.

• Herbal remedies like teas with fennel and dill may help, but check with your doctor first.

• Lay your baby on his bike and gently bicycle his legs to shift any gas bubbles that may be there.

• Massage your baby with close attention to his tummy.

Experiment with ways to soothe your baby. Some ideas may work in combination with others, and sometimes, nothing will make a difference. Never lose sight of the fact that this is temporary, and there will be no long term difficulties that result from colic. If you are feeling frustrated, get some relief or take a break. It is okay to put your baby in a safe place, like a crib, and walk into another room to gather your wits. Do not despair. A colicky baby does not mean you are a bad parent. You are just going through a very difficult time that will pass.

– Paul Williams has been writing for the babysitting industry for the last decade. His articles are very useful and he writes regularly for Aupair.org.