Infant gas could be due to swallowing too much air while crying, nursing or drinking from a bottle. Babies can also develop gas because of something that the mother has eaten or from their formula. Some signs that a baby has gas include fussiness, bloated stomach, difficulty burping and kicking of the legs. Practicing proper bottle-feeding techniques and switching formula products are some ways that could relieve a baby from discomfort due to gas. There are also a few medications that a doctor can prescribe for gassy babies. However, these medications may have side effects that should be discussed with a pediatrician.
Simethicone
Simethicone, a foaming agent, is a common ingredient in many anti-gas treatment products, specifically gas that is caused from feeding. Mylicon drops are an example of a simethicone product. It is considered safe and effective in breaking down the bubbles that causes gas, giving relief within minutes. According to a study conducted by the University of Michigan Department of Pediatrics, simethicone is not helpful for everyone. If the gas is not immediately burped up, then it travels to the lower digestive tract where simethicone is less effective. Depending on the cause of the gas, some infants may not respond to this treatment.
Gripe Water
Gripe water or gripe tonic can temporally relieve the discomfort due to acid reflux. Gripe water that contains sodium bicarbonate or baking soda helps relieve babies of gas. The baking soda in gripe water contains alkali, which can balance the PH acid level naturally formed in the infant's stomach. Because baking soda is absorbed into the bloodstream, gripe water can cause serious problems in infants. According to the US Food and Drug Administration, Collic Calm is the only regulated gripe water as it does not contain baking soda, but contains other natural ingredients.
Homeopathic Drops
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, homeopathic medicines may also help a baby that is suffering from gas, which may result in a colic baby. Homeopathic drops may contain cuprum mettalicum or carbo vegetabilis. These ingredients can help to ease the gas pains in some babies. Other remedies containing mint, ginger and chamomile can also help when a child is experiencing a mild case of gas or pain. The US Food and Drug Administration do not regulate homeopathic remedies, therefore caution should be using when using these drops. Consult a doctor before using homeopathic treatments on infants.
