Articles

Infant Colic

Infant colic is one of the most common conditions affecting babies during the first few months. The baby experiences continuous crying without an apparent reason for more than 3 hours a day and more than 3 days a week. In most cases, it does not require medical intervention, as symptoms usually disappear by 3-4 months of age.


Some Symptoms of Infant Colic

  • Painful expressions on the baby's face
  • Baby pulls up their legs
  • Baby experiences bloating


The exact cause of infant colic remains unknown, but there are some ways to alleviate the symptoms in babies:

  • Use low-lactose or lactose-free formula
  • Substitute cow’s milk in the mother's diet with soy milk
  • Mothers are advised to follow a low-allergen diet, reducing foods like nuts, eggs, and dairy
  • Bathe the baby in warm water
  • Hold and cuddle the baby to soothe them



References:

Lucassen, P. L., Assendelft, W. J., Gubbels, J. W., van Eijk, J. T., & van Geldrop, W. J. (2001). Effectiveness of treatments for infantile colic: systematic review. BMJ, 323(7311), 1563-1565.