Colic causes incessant crying spurts that cannot be stopped easily. Most infants outgrow colic by around 4 months. Despite the relatively short time frame, parents often feel frustration and helplessness. Not all methods work for every colicky baby, but certain techniques help soothe a child and ease colic symptoms, giving parents' nerves a break as well.
Food
In some cases, the food a breastfeeding mother eats affects colic in an infant. Avoiding stimulants, such as caffeine, and allergy-causing foods, such as nuts and dairy products, helps some babies with colic. In bottle-fed babies, the formula used is a possible trigger for colic. If you suspect the formula is the problem, consider trying a different type. Ask your pediatrician for advice before switching, as different formulas sometimes cause digestive problems. Switch to a slower-flow nipple for bottles to slow down your baby's eating. Watch for signs that your baby is full, such as slowing down or turning away from the nipple, to prevent overeating, which also can contribute to colic.
Comfort
Comfort measures ease colic for some babies. Each baby is different in the type of touch she likes. Holding your baby close for more time during the day tends to reduce fussiness, according to MedlinePlus. Try swaddling your baby or holding her in a sling for a cozy, comfortable environment. Rubbing or massaging provides comfort for some colicky babies. Another method of comforting her is to apply a slightly warm hot water bottle to the abdomen or place her in a warm bathtub. The warmth provides a soothing quality.
Positioning
The position in which you hold your baby plays a role in his comfort. Try an upright position to fend off heartburn or acid sensations in your baby. The upright positioning also helps relieve gas that sometimes contributes to colic. A tummy-lying position is another option during your baby's awake time. Lying on his front places pressure on the stomach that feels soothing. Never put your baby to sleep on his stomach, as this increases the risk of SIDS. Use the stomach position only when your baby is awake and supervised.
Parent Tips
The way you handle a colicky baby affects her disposition. The incessant crying is enough to make even a normally calm person frazzled, but your baby picks up on your tension and anger. When you become frustrated, she is likely to cry harder or have a difficult time calming down. Practice breathing and positive visualization to keep yourself calm when your baby gets fussy. Ask for help from your partner or another family member if you can't calm down. Get out of the house for a short time to regain your composure.
