Infant gas is an ailment experienced by most babies at one time or another. For adults, gas isn't usually a big deal, but for a tiny baby, gas bubbles can cause severe pain. Gas in babies is sometimes caused by a change in formula or certain foods in a nursing mother's diet. If your child is frequently bloated and seems to be struggling with trapped gas, take him to see a doctor. A pediatrician can help diagnose the cause of your baby's gas and work with you towards solving the problem.
Colic
Colic is the diagnosis doctors give when your infant has daily crying bouts. The pediatrician-run information site AskDr.Sears.com states that colic is caused by pain in the gut, most often brought about by trapped gas. You can help relieve your baby's colic by giving her small feedings throughout the day rather than a few large feeding sessions. Try holding your baby in different positions to help her release trapped gas. Consider carrying your baby in a baby sling to comfort her and prevent excessive crying. Colic usually peaks when a child is 6 to 8 weeks old and most babies outgrow colic symptoms by 4 months old.
Sleep Loss
Babies suffering from intestinal gas often have a difficult time sleeping. The trapped gas causes discomfort, which can make babies cry. The act of crying causes your baby to suck in more air and can lead to even more trapped gas. Help your baby relax when he is suffering from gas pains so that he can get some much-needed rest. Dr. Spock, another pediatric information site, recommends swaddling your gassy baby when he is upset and unable to sleep. Swaddling can provide comfort and help get an upset baby to sleep. You can also try rocking your baby in a cradle or swing to help him sleep or take him for a gentle car ride to soothe him.
Pain
For small babies, gas is often accompanied by pain. Gas bubbles that get trapped in your child's intestines can cause cramping and discomfort. AskDr.Sears.com recommends trying a few massage and position techniques to release your infant's gas and relieve her pain. Try laying your baby face up on your outstretched legs. Bend her knees gently, pumping her legs like she's riding a bicycle to try and release some of her gas. You can also work to relieve your child's gas pains by lying your baby on her stomach. Place a soft pillow or rolled up blanket under her stomach to help try and push out the painful trapped gas.
