- Colic Guru
Treating the symptoms of colic
The symptoms of colic can last for several months. Most will start to subside around three to four months but can last until solid foods are introduced at around six months. It is draining and exhausting for the baby and the entire family!
There are a number of colic remedies, antacids, pain killers and homeopathic concoctions to try. They may provide temporary relief but don't expect too much from these. They are, by law, quite weak and the baby's body gets used to them fairly quickly and they tend to lose their effect. It is impossible to suggest what will work for any given baby so it is a 'try and see' situation.
A sweet tasting remedy may help the baby to take their pacifier which may be the real benefit of the drops! A probiotic or lactase enzymes, can help if baby has had antibiotics and their intestinal flora have been upset. Again, this is a matter of trial and error. The most prescribed medicine in the world, is probably Nexium, given to help the irritation and burn that can result from reflux and colic. This may help the symptoms but does not address the cause.
Treating the causes of colic
The good news is that the best treatment for the cause is also the most natural, involves no chemicals and is free! It is quite simply, helping the digestive process in whatever way you can:
make the feeding process as easy and comfortable as possible
get the burps and winds out.
A quick word of advice
It is only natural for the parent to want their baby's symptoms to ease as soon as possible. Soothing techniques and colic remedies are important for the crisis periods when your baby is cramping, crying and distressed. Sadly, many parents medicate only, jumping from one 'remedy' to the next in their quest for relief. It is not uncommon to hear that a baby is being given 3 or 4 of these and they're only three weeks old! Like many conditions, treating only the symptoms will not solve the problem. In fact, it often ends up taking months longer because more appropriate treatment is delayed.
The good news is that it's not that difficult to help if you know what to do. as long as your baby is not sick, hungry or has an underlying problem, the cause of discomfort can usually be helped with good burping and winding techniques.