Dirty diapers, constant crying, sleepless nights – all parents are familiar with both the joys and challenges that a new addition to the family can bring. Yet it can come as a shock to some – particularly newborn parents – when the baby does not stop crying for hours or even days at a time. We fear the worst: does my child have colic?

What is colic?

Colic is defined as the incessant or uncontrollable crying of an otherwise healthy infant. It often starts between two to four weeks after birth, during which the baby has several bouts of crying during the day, usually in the mornings and in the evening, which can last for almost three hours. This colic stage often goes away after the fourth month, and only is very rare cases does it persist after the fifth month. Approximately 40% of infants suffer from mild colic, whereas 10-15% are predicted to suffer from severe colic. But do not worry: all colic cases, whether mild or severe, are only temporary.

Causes

Although professionals are not certain as to the exact causes of colic, some evidence suggests that the disorder is related to digestive problems. Some professionals claim that colic is caused as a result of the baby’s intestines working too hard, resulting in painful cramps. Other doctors argue that the disorder is based on slow bowel moves which result in gas being trapped in the intestines, which can be very painful and leads to inflammation. Many osteopaths and other medical professionals still dispute the causes of colic, but where research has been conducted, it has emerged that there is no known 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 simple things you can do to make your child more at ease. Osteopaths propose the following techniques: Massage your child’s belly in slow, circular movements Strap the baby to your stomach in a sling. Your body heat, movement, and sound of your heartbeat should make them feel more at ease.

If the problem persists after the fourth months, you are recommended to visit an osteopathic clinic, where medical professionals will conduct a thorough examination and look for tensions within your child’s the body.

It is extremely difficult for any parent to watch their child suffer, especially when you feel powerless to help them. But hopefully, with today’s modern osteopathic techniques, and with the knowledge that colic is never long-lasting, you can be at peace, and you and your baby can get a good night’s sleep at last.