Colic

Colic is a fairly common disorder in young infants and is usually limited to the first three months of life. The infant with colic will usually eat hungrily, pass a lot of gas, double-up with stomach cramps and cry excessively. Episodes of colic usually occur in the evening and it will be a special time that your child chooses. Episodes will then repeat themselves each evening, night after night, and usually occur for about the same duration of time. As the weeks go by, each episode of colic becomes shorter until the problem disappears on its own. Colic is a persistent problem with a consistent pattern, but the pattern differs slightly for each child.

If what you think is colic has been present for only one or two days, it may not be colic. It is probably a new problem in which the increased irritability is only a symptom. Please call our office for an appointment to discuss these concerns.

For colic, the following may be helpful:
1. Do not over feed. Some children are vigorous feeders and feed to the point of spitting up or becoming irritable.

2. Burp your baby more frequently.

3. Swaddling during the periods of colic is often helpful. You will need to ask for directions on this procedure from the nurses when you are in the office.

4. Change the type of nipple. Some children will suck more gas from some types of nipples. Playtex or Curity nursers usually work better.

5. If your baby is bottle feeding and fussy after most feedings, a change of formula may be necessary. Please call the office for suggestions of other formulas.

6. If your baby is breast feeding, mothers may need to stop drinking cow's milk or any other foods that seem to worsen the baby’s symptoms.

7. If none of the above are successful, please schedule an appointment.