The digestive system of a baby is immature for many months after birth. This makes passing gas more difficult for a baby, and it makes it easier for her to feel discomfort from air in the digestive tract. Determining the cause of the gas in your infant may be more difficult than determining that she's uncomfortable. Signs of baby gas resemble many other cues that your baby needs something.
Mood
A fussy baby who has been fed, changed, cuddled and has had plenty of rest may have gas. Intermittent cries, such as a sharp cry due to pain, may indicate uncomfortable intestinal gas. She may go from being perfectly happy to acting as if she's in pain in a matter of moments. The cry may be distinct from any other cry she has. It may sound as if she is in great pain.
Grimacing
Your little one may squirm, grunt, strain or arch her back in pain from gas. Babies don't understand the sensation they may feel when they need to expel air in the digestive tract. An air bubble that's trapped in their small belly may make them uncomfortable, even to the point of not wanting to be held. If the grimacing is followed by a few audible sounds of the baby passing gas, note his behavior for future reference. The next time he acts this way, rock him, burp him or give him a baby massage to help relieve the air pressure.
Change in Behavior
Waking in the middle of the night and crying may be a sign of gas, but it may be hard to distinguish from other infant needs. If your baby burps as soon as you pick her up, she may go right back to sleep. Your baby may refuse to eat when gas hurts her stomach.
Other Signs
Gas may cause your baby's tummy to be hard, and he may burp or pass gas frequently after exhibiting other signs of discomfort. Frequent episodes of pain followed by the expulsion of air may warrant an examination of your baby's diet and burping habits after meals.
