If you are wondering what colic is you are definitely not alone. Just the mention of the word “colic” can bring concern and fear to parents’ eyes whether they are on their first child or their fifth. Most people think of crying when they think of colic, but they may not know much more than that.
While colic is a pretty widespread issue for infants, it is not completely understood by the medical or child development communities. However, there is a good deal we do know about colic, and it is a good idea for every parent to understand this condition.
Colic defined
Colic is a medical condition that occurs in infants, usually when they have reached about three weeks of age. It is diagnosed when healthy babies cry harder than one would expect in a “three pattern.” A three pattern means that the infant is crying for more than three hours a day, more than three times a week, for at least three weeks in a row. This is how a parent can tell that their child has colic and that he or she is not just fussy.
The most important thing to remember if your child has colic is that colic is completely normal and occurs in somewhere between fifteen and 25 percent of infants. It does not indicate any health problems or illness in your little one and it will not adversely impact their growth and development in the future. Although it is painful for parents to watch and experience, remembering that the infant is not in danger and will not be harmed can be comforting.
The second most important thing to keep in mind is that colic is usually temporary. Although there is no guaranteed, known cure for colic, most children grow out of it by three months. For some, it may take up to six months for colic to fade completely, but the colic will most certainly end.
Tips for handling colic
If your infant has colic, you may want to try some common ways of soothing him or her to stop the crying.
Some suggestions that parents find helpful include:
Swaddling. Wrapping your baby snugly into a blanket may make it easier for him or her to fall asleep and stay asleep
Bouncing or rocking. Smooth and repetitive motions can help stop a baby’s tears
White noise. Ambient noise can help block out disturbing sounds, making it easier for the baby to stay asleep and avoid excessive stimulation.
If you believe that your infant may have colic, you should seek assistance from your pediatrician who can offer more insights and a correct diagnosis.
Shop soothing products to help with colic
Parents of children with colic can find great tools and resources from your friends at Luna Lullaby. From swaddling
blankets, nursing pillows to the Bounce
a Bye Baby, you can find great ways to soothe your infant in this challenging time.
Congratulations on the arrival of your newest family member, and thank you for visiting Luna Lullaby.
