The discomfort from gas pains in infants may cause fussiness and crying periods. According to Babies Today, clues that the baby is suffering from gas include pulling the legs up towards her body or lying in a curled position on her side. Occasional crying from gas does not mean that the baby is suffering from colic. The Kids Health website states that colic is diagnosed when the baby cries for more than three hours a day continuously.
Step 1
Burp the baby. If gas is stuck in the tummy, a burp helps relieve the discomfort. Pat the baby's back while he lies against your lap or rests on your shoulder. To prevent gas, burp the baby every two to three ounces of food he ingests.
Step 2
Lay the baby flat on her back. Apply a light amount of pressure to the tummy area using your fingers. Gently massaging the tummy may help get rid of her gas.
Step 3
Put your baby in a football hold. The Babies Today website recommends putting the baby in a facedown position on your forearm with her legs resting on your elbows. Place her chin in your hands to help her dispel gas bubbles.
Step 4
Adjust your diet. If you are breastfeeding, one of the foods you are eating may affect the baby's digestive system adversely. Remove a single food item at a time and note if the baby tends to suffer from gas less when you are not eating that particular food. Some common culprits include milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt, corn, eggs, nuts and fish.
Tips and Warnings
- Certain formulas may cause gas and digestive issues. Ask your doctor about switching formulas to relieve symptoms.
- Do not use anti-gas medications, such as simethicone to treat infant gassiness. According to the Kids Health website from the Nemours Foundation, these drops have not been proven effective.
