COLIC IN INFANTS: UNDERSTANDING ITS CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS

Does your baby have prolonged periods of fussing or crying  that leaves you exhausted and frustrated? This might be colic or “kabag” in Filipino which is a common yet challenging condition that affects many infants especially during the first few months of life. Colicky babies would often be described as crying intensely for hours for no apparent cause, usually in the afternoon or evening which is one of the main reasons it is distressing and worrisome for parents¹. But what really causes colic in babies? What are the signs that babies have colic? Are there ways to soothe colicky infants?  

What is Colic?

Colic is a functional gastrointestinal disorder  commonly seen during the first five months of life². It is characterized by prolonged periods of fussing/crying/irritability in an otherwise healthy infant which cannot be prevented or resolved by the parents or care-givers. 

Although the exact cause of colic in infants is incompletely understood, it has been theorized that it may be due to various factors such as an immature digestive system, a disturbance of pathways in the central nervous system or it may be due to psychosocial causes such  as parental anxiety1. Nonetheless, colic is a self-limiting condition, and most babies outgrow it naturally. 

Home Remedies 

Here are some time-tested old home remedies for colic in babies³

1. Warm Compresses: Placing a warm compress or  towel on the babies abdomen may help relieve gas and soothe discomfort.
2. Massage: Gently moving the hands in a clockwise motion on the infant’s abdomen can stimulate digestion and ease gas pain.
3. Gripe water: This mixture contains water, herbs and sodium bicarbonate which is used to calm colicky babies. This may be available commercially.
4. Herbal Teas: This is not for the babies but for the nursing mothers who will pass the calming effects of teas, particularly fennel or chamomile tea through breastmilk.  

Newer and modern soothing techniques to calm colicky babies include the following:

1. Swaddling: Wrapping the baby snugly in a blanket can provide comfort.
2. Gentle Movement: Rocking or putting the baby in a swing or “duyan” can help settle a crying baby.
3. Burping: Ensuring the baby is properly burped after feeding may reduce gas discomfort.
4. White Noise: Playing soothing music can mimic the womb environment and therefore may calm the infant. 

Although colic is harmless, consult a physician when the baby develops fever, vomiting, poor weight gain, or other unusual symptoms. An underlying medical issue has to be ruled out.  

Conclusion

Patience is the key. While it may be overwhelming to take care of a colicky infant, understanding that colic is just a phase and that it will eventually pass help parents and caregivers deal with this developmental phenomenon. With the combination of modern and old home remedies,   babies may overcome colic over time. And always remember, seeking support from family, friends, or healthcare providers can help make the journey a lot easier.