Colic - Infantile Colic: Colic also known as infantile colic is a condition in which an otherwise healthy baby cries or displays symptoms of distress frequently and for extended periods, without any discernible reason. The condition typically appears within the first month of life and often disappears rather suddenly before the baby is three to four months old. However colic can last up to one year. One study concludes that babies who are not breastfed are almost twice as likely to have colic. The crying often increases during a specific period of the day, particularly the early evening. Symptoms may worsen soon after feeding, especially in babies that do not belch easily. According to doctors chocolate, cow’s milk and onions are among the foods that a lactating mother needs to avoid.
Colic is thought to result from a baby’s sensitive temperament, environment and immature nervous system. Other factors that may contribute to the crying associated with colic include an immature digestive system; tiredness; food allergy; overly warm milk; overfeeding and underfeeding. It is hard to treat colic since its specific cause is unknown. Some herbs and supplements may be taken by the mother if she is breastfeeding while others may be taken by the infant either alone or mixed with infant formula or juice.
You should see your doctor if your baby cries excessively. This is so your doctor can rule out conditions that may be causing your baby's crying, such as eczema or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).
