Colic in Young Children
Sleepless nights, dirty diapers, and continuous tears - all parents have experienced both the joys and challenges of raising a newborn. Yet it can be shocking for most - particularly first-time parents - to learn that your baby is not a little happy bundle of joy, but instead an inconsolable crying nightmare. You begin to wonder: does my baby have colic?
What is colic?
Colic refers to the persistent and uncontrollable crying that an otherwise healthy infant undergoes, starting from two weeks after birth and possibly lasting to the fourth month. Babies with colic often have crying ’sessions’(usually at the same intervals during the day, such as in the mornings and evenings) that can last up to three hours. The colic stage very rarely persists after the fifth month, and many infants are reported undergo this stage. 10-15% of all infants get severe colic, whereas mild colic is more common at 40%. But do not fret: all colic cases, both mild and severe, are only temporary.
Causes
While professionals have not been able to find the source of the disorder, there has been some evidence to suggest that colic is related to problems within the digestive system. Some doctors suggest that colic is caused as a result of the child’s small intestines working too hard (causing cramps), whereas others claim that it is a result of slow bowel movement, causing pain by keeping wind trapped in the intestines. This can lead to inflammation. Osteopaths and other medical professionals have long since been in dispute as to the causes of colic, but as far as research has shown, there is no definitive source.
Common symptoms
You might ask, ‘how do I know whether my child has colic?’ There are various common symptoms that can help you identify the disorder: The infant cries incessantly and very loudly for two or three hours non-stop, without being comforted, and is persistently doing so for days Restlessness and visible discomfort The infant pulls their thighs up to their abdomen and clenches their fists Some babies release a lot of wind, or appear to be in pain while passing gas
Treatment & Prevention
There are several techniques that you as a parent can employ to make your child feel more comfortable. Osteopaths recommend the following: Try carrying the infant on a sling on your stomach. Your heartbeat, body heat and movement might make them feel more at ease. Gently massage the infant’s belly in slow circular movements.
If the problem persists, it is important that you take your child to an osteopathic clinic for extra attention and examination. Here medical professionals can help identify and address any tensions in your baby’s body.
Seeing your child in pain is any parent’s worst nightmare, especially when you do not know what to do about it. Now you can hopefully rest assured: with today’s modern osteopathic techniques, and with the knowledge that colic is only temporary, a good night’s sleep is in order for both you and your baby.