Natural relief for a baby's colic

(NaturalNews) There's nothing more precious than a new baby. Nine months pass so quickly, as you excitedly look forward to the day when you are finally holding that sweet little bundle in your arms. In the first few months of life, your baby communicates by crying to let you know when he has a need such as being hungry, needing a diaper change, feeling scared, lonely, cold, sick or bored. There may be times when you take care of every possible need, and your baby continues to cry. You feel helpless as you frantically phone your pediatrician. Normally after examining your baby, the doctor tells you that your baby has a case of colic. (Of course, if there is ever a doubt about the health of your baby, please contact your pediatrician.)

Although not all babies experience colic, only about one in five, some babies develop a strong case of it around three weeks old. Colic is described as pain in the abdomen resulting from trapped gas in the digestive tract of your little one. Usually the result is excessive crying. A case of colic may continue off and on until your baby reaches about four months. Signs include loud crying, clenched hands, flexing arms and legs that are drawn up tightly against his abdomen. His little tummy may seem hard and he may suffer from a large amount of gas. It's horrible to watch this little helpless person cry out in pain.

While there is no perfect cure for colic, some parents have found temporary relief for their baby, using these natural health approaches. Swaddle your baby by wrapping him snugly in a warm blanket. Support him with his tummy up against the inside of your forearm with his back against your side. The slight pressure against his mid-section may help. If your baby takes a pacifier, be sure you have one handy especially during his colicky moments. Are you a nursing mother? If so, be careful of the food you eat. Spicy or gassy foods may add to his colicky symptoms. Your diet affects the milk you produce. Be sure to burp your baby well after he eats. This will help to expel unwanted air from his tummy. Keep your little one away from drafts or wind. Sooth him with gentle soft music. Try adding a tiny drop of pure peppermint extract to a teaspoon of water. Slowly spoon this warm mixture into the baby's mouth. A small amount of weak Chamomile tea water may also help to calm your baby's tummy trouble. (Be sure not to add sugar or honey as a baby's digestive system is not ready to digest these items.) Placing your baby in a warm bath and sponging warm water over his tummy area may also be of benefit.

Remaining calm and being willing to try out different techniques for relieving your baby's colic, will allow you to bond with your little one in a special way. Remember you are his world and he needs you. His colic won't last forever and one day soon, that sad little face will reward you with a beautiful little smile.

Sources:
http://www.mothernature.com
http://www.prolificcontent.com
http://www.ofgu.org/