Different babies suffer differently from this condition.
There is no dearth of treatments out there but the problem
is that only few really work. A combination of methods
through trial and error, mix and match have to be considered
and carried out before something clicks. This can be
time-consuming not to mention trying. Here are some
ways you can consider trying and you may have to resort
to more than one method at a given time.
1. Always check with your doctor to rule out other possibilities
on why your baby is crying and fussing so much before
labeling the problem yourself.
2. The best start to dealing with the problem of colic
is to find certain relaxing positions which suits you
and baby and then introducing certain gentle movements
such as patting, rhythmic massage and soothing sounds
(running the vacuum cleaner is the classic example)
to complete the picture.
3. Dill (the main ingredient in gripe water) has long
been used as a massage oil to soothe colic and help
babies sleep. It is a pleasantly sweet smelling herb
that will provide calming relief to your baby. When
you get hold of dill essential oil, add1 drop to 1 tablespoon
of sweet almond oil, and blend them together in a small
container. Spread the oil on your hands and rub your
hands vigorously to warm them before massaging your
baby clockwise on the tummy. Try a warm bath in the
evening before the tummy massage, followed by a small
feed and then a swaddle (if possible).
4. If you are breast-feeding, drinking chamomile or
fennel tea could help. Try giving a few drops to your
baby as well. Check on what you are eating and consider
trying an elimination diet. Certain gassy foods include
beans, broccoli or cauliflower, asparagus and lentils,
which you can try eliminating. Dairy products including
milk, yogurt, ice-cream, cheese etc are considered 'fuss'
foods which you should consider removing while you are
breast-feeding but remember to take a calcium supplement
in its place. Be objective in your expectations since
it may take several weeks to identify the offending
food(s) and by that time your baby may have 'improved
his behavior'. Interestingly, a small amount of some
foods do not affect baby as larger quantities can e.g.
an occasional cup of yogurt may not impact as badly
as 2 large mugs of milk.
5. You can also place your baby on her tummy and rub
her back in rhythmic, circular motions. Alternate this
with bicycle movements – lie your baby on her back and
gently hold her ankles and move her legs as if pedaling
a bike. Else, why not consider the popular old-fashioned
way of strapping baby into a sling and bouncing him
around.
6. Although there are over-the-counter medications for
it, they seem to be of little help for severe colic.
Still with your doctor's guidance (if you deem necessary)
you can consider trying some OTC medicines meant specially
for colic.
