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Bringing home a new baby can be exciting, exciting, and sometimes scary, especially if you’re a first-time parent. But the first few weeks are usually some of the most peaceful in your child’s life as they get used to living in the world. However, by the third week, you may notice that they start to struggle a bit. They may cry for a long time or be difficult to calm down. If these cries are loud and accompanied by facial flushing, bowel movements, cold feet, clenched fists and/or wriggling arms and legs, and last for more than three hours, you may have a newborn baby on your hands. So, today, we’re going to talk about what you need to know to help your child (and you) get through it.
Don’t feed them
Some children stop eating when they are full. Some children, however, are slow to develop the brain-gut connection. When this happens, your baby can feed slowly for longer and longer periods. This makes them very crowded and very uncomfortable. We encourage you to follow your nurses breastfeeding schedule for each feeding. If you notice that they are fussy after breastfeeding for a long time, a very full stomach may be the reason.
Watch your diet
If you are breastfeeding, you should be aware of the foods you eat. Be careful with foods that contain milk and caffeine, and vegetables such as onions, cabbage, beans, broccoli. This can upset your baby’s stomach and make him feel uncomfortable, bloated, and short of breath.
Change the formulas
If you breastfeed your baby and notice that he cries and fusses immediately after feeding, it may be because of the milk. Some brands contain whey protein which can be difficult for a baby’s system to digest. Talk to your doctor about an allergy reliever and see if you notice a reduction in colic episodes.
Stimulation
Although there is no conclusive evidence that stimulation helps reduce the symptoms of colic, those who have experienced colic with their babies swear by several methods. Sometimes a constant noise such as a clothes dryer, a light, or a washing machine can calm them down. Background music tends to work better than music or TV noise. Also, musical movements such as walking, swaying, or rocking can help. Some say to wrap them tightly in a soft blanket. Simply holding them upright versus lying on their back can also do the trick.
We still don’t understand the cause of colic in babies, but some experts say it may be a genetic trait. If your baby is suffering from colic (a period of crying that lasts more than three hours), it is good to know the things that can make him sick. As frustrating as a colicky baby can be, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Colic affects up to 25% of newborns and is often a sign of poor health. Babies who develop the disease are usually big, healthy, strong adults who usually grow by the third month.
If you think your baby has colic, it’s important to check with your child to rule out a possible problem.