What is Colic?
Colic is defined as repeated episodes of excessive and inconsolable crying in a new-born baby who otherwise appears to be perfectly healthy. The condition can affect up to one in five babies, so you’re not alone.
Infant colic can have many causes. In some cases it is believed to be caused by temporary lactose intolerance. This is because in the first months of life, some babies are unable to fully break down lactose, a complex sugar in breast and formula milk. It can produce wind, bloating and cause discomfort, and one of the main symptoms is inconsolable crying.
As any parent with a distressed, crying baby knows, colic affects a whole household, and can be very frustrating and upsetting for all involved.
If you suspect your baby has colic it can help to keep a cry diary, and speak to your health visitor. You could also try a 1 week trial of Colief® Infant Drops to help diagnose whether temporary lactose intolerance could be the cause of the colic symptoms. For many babies, Colief® Infant Drops can help ease the symptoms of colic by breaking down the lactose in your baby’s usual milk, making it easier to digest. The result is less discomfort and fewer tears. Simply add a few drops of Colief® to the milk each time you breastfeed or use infant formula.
To find out how to relieve colic, treat the symptoms and watch expert videos from independent health visitor, Dawn Kelly, see below.
Symptoms of Colic
Could it be something else?
Other conditions can cause excessive crying, such as constipation and gastro-oesophageal reflux (GORD). If your baby has other symptoms, such as blood in the stools and vomiting, speak to your GP.