COLIC AT NEWBORN BABY
Newborn baby usually always cry to tell something, but when babies cry very
intense, we may diagnosed our baby with colic. Baby with colic will cry relentlessly
for at least three hours several times a week, usually in the evening. Colic
is defined as continual or persistent crying without any apparent reason, typically
lasting between 2 and 4 hours a day for at least 5 days a week. It usually begins
at around 2 or 3 weeks of age, and subsides on its own by 12 weeks. Colic is
not uncommon - it's estimated that as many as 1 in 5 babies have this condition.
What are the symptoms of colic?
As well as the crying and general distress, baby will often extend or pull
up her legs, arching her back; and her tummy may feel bloated.
The Cause Of Colic
The causes are not fully understood, although some experts believe that bottle-fed
babies are more likely to be affected as they take in air through the teat.
Other causes are smoking during pregnancy - this includes being in a smoky atmosphere
(second-hand smoke).
Other theories include an intolerance of lactose (a natural ingredient of milk),
and the immaturity of her digestive system - the latter is supported by the
fact that babies usually grow out of colic at around 12 weeks of age.
Is colic a serious condition?
Parents of a colicky baby may be relieved to find out that, however alarming
the bouts of crying are, colic itself is not a serious condition. Though they
may appear to be in distress, babies with colic are usually in good health.
Their growth and development tends to thrive much the same as other healthy
babies. It should be certain, however, that the child does not suffer from any
other medical conditions which could be producing colic-like symptoms. A baby
who has regular bouts of persistent crying should be examined by a pediatrician
to rule out any possible medical problems, and to confirm that the baby's health
and development are normal.
Although colic is not a serious medical problem, it can cause a great deal
of stress and anxiety within the family. Excessive crying can wear on everybody's
nerves, and can lead to feelings of parental inadequacy and constant worrying
about the child's health. This kind of anxiety isn't good for either the parents
or the baby. Colic is neither the parents' nor the baby's fault. Parents who
are feeling stressed or burned out should seek relief for themselves whenever
possible. They should leave the baby in the hands of a competent babysitter,
and take time out for a movie, a dinner out, or just a few hours of quiet relaxation.
Taking frequent breaks can go a long way towards helping parents cope with their
baby's colic with patience, perseverance, and a sense of humour.
How to cure for colic?
There is no cure for colic at the present. Fortunately colic disappears on its
own, usually by about 3 months of age.
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