1. It Could Be Just Gas
Abdominal pain in babies is very common. It could be gas, lactose intolerance, a virus or constipation. Most times, abdominal pain is temporary and nothing to worry about. However, if it persists or is intense, it could be a sign of something more serious, such as appendicitis, an obstruction or an infection. Your baby may just have colic. A colicky baby may be difficult to console and have attacks of abdominal pain around the same time each day. Try not to over feed your baby during the colicky times, even though he may want to continue eating.
2. My Tummy Hurts
Since an infant can't talk, she can't let you know that her tummy hurts. It becomes a guessing game when trying to diagnose abdominal pain in babies. Discuss your baby's abdominal pain with her doctor before treating her yourself. Your health care provider may suggest that anti-gas or antispasmodic drops may be helpful in reducing the pain. If the baby seems constipated, a bottle of diluted apple juice may help push things through. However, if your baby has blood or mucus in her stools, vomits excessively or isn't eating or drinking, call her health care provider.
3. Food Allergies May Be Upsetting
Dietary changes may help reduce abdominal pain in babies. Food allergies may be the culprit of your baby's tummy aches. If the baby is breastfeeding, the foods the mother eats goes to the baby through the milk. Acid reflux is also another issue babies may have. Try feeding your baby in an upright position to help alleviate acid reflux. Many times it takes several tries to find a formula that doesn't upset your baby's stomach.
4. Manipulate Baby's Colic
Chiropractic treatments may have a positive effect on a baby's colicky episodes. Gentle spinal manipulation appears to lessen the daily colic pain by almost 70%. Don't ignore your baby's pain if it persists after a chiropractic treatment since it may be something more serious than colic.
5. Pour Some Tea for Two
Chamomile, lemon balm and peppermint are a few herbs that are helpful in relieving a baby's abdominal pain. Swaddle your baby and try gently rocking him. If your baby is colicky, try to remain calm since stress can worsen your baby's colic symptoms. You may also want to join your baby with a warm cup of chamomile tea since it can help calm your nerves too. Keep in mind that colic usually lasts the first three to four months of your baby's life.
