Baby colic: anti-colic medications
Colic in young babies is one of the biggest (if not the biggest) headaches for new parents. In fact, colic They are a common condition, occurring in about 40% of babies. Furthermore,at Correia Rosa Pharmacies, we are increasingly observing the indiscriminate use of anti-colic medications. Are these medications useful in all situations? We will answer this and other questions in this article.
But what exactly are cramps?
Colic results from the accumulation of gas in the baby’s intestines, which, being still immature, they are unable to eliminate properly. On the other hand, colic is the term used to describe excessive crying in babies during the first few months of life.
To say that a baby suffers from colic, the rule of 3 must be met. That is, a baby with colic cries for more than 3 hours a day on more than 3 days a week. Furthermore, this crying usually begins between the 3rd and 6th week of life and resolves spontaneously after 4 months. It is therefore very difficult to distinguish colic crying from normal baby crying due to other situations such as hunger, discomfort, or sleepiness. However, there are some signs that can help to distinguish between them.
5 signs of colic in babies:
- Episodes of crying that last about 3 hours a day;
- They have a sudden onset, usually in the late afternoon or early evening;
- The crying is more intense and higher-pitched, like screams of pain;
- Crying is accompanied by physical signs: a flushed face, a swollen and tense abdomen, leg extension and flexion movements, and arching of the back.
- Tears that are hard to console.
Despite these characteristic signs of colic, it can still be difficult to distinguish. Therefore, the first thing to do when a baby has episodes of intense crying is to remain calm. Only then can we gather the tools we need to help the baby. Next, try to determine the source of the crying by asking the following questions: Is it hunger? Does it need a diaper change? Is the baby too hot or too cold? Is the baby very tired and unable to fall asleep? Does the baby need comfort? Finally, if all these needs have been met and the inconsolable crying persists, then we can consider that the baby may have colic.
To alleviate a baby’s discomfort related to colic, we need to try to understand the cause of the colic, which is not always an easy task!
Causes of colic in babies
Although the exact causes of colic are still unknown, factors such as digestive problems, food sensitivities, and the immaturity of the baby’s digestive system may play a significant role. Therefore, understanding these elements is fundamental to effectively managing colic.
For example, a baby may swallow air when using a pacifier or when feeding eagerly if their mouth is poorly adapted to the nipple or teat. This can also happen if the nose is blocked and/or if the teat is not completely filled with milk. Therefore, we understand that before using ‘miracle drops’ there are other factors to consider and other strategies to apply.
Relief without Medication: 7 Strategies
- Ensure the baby’s nose is unobstructed, especially during feedings;
- Check and correct the baby’s latch onto the nipple or teat during breastfeeding;
- When bottle-feeding, fill the teat completely with milk, holding the bottle upright;
- Place the baby in an upright position to burp during and at the end of feedings;
- Perform maneuvers to help expel gas from the intestines. To do this, you can gently massage the baby’s tummy and also gently bend the baby’s legs towards their tummy to facilitate the expulsion of accumulated gas. These maneuvers should not be performed immediately after feeding;
- Calm the baby by rocking them using gentle movements on a Pilates ball;
- For babies fed with formula, strictly adhere to the indicated dosages for preparing the bottle.
When these measures are ineffective, we can then move on to other options that involve taking medication.
Types of anti-colic medications – which one is best?
In more severe cases, non-pharmacological measures may not be sufficient. At these times, it is important to carefully consider the use of anti-colic medications to relieve colic in babies. From simethicone drops to medications with plant extracts, there are options to consider, but always under professional supervision.
There are several types of medication available, which should be prescribed taking into account the possible cause of the baby’s colic:
- Probiotics: Lactobacillus reuteri is the only probiotic recommended for treating colic. It can be used when we suspect that the cause of the colic is related to the immaturity of the baby’s intestine.
- Enzymes: Lactase is a fundamental enzyme for digesting lactose in milk. It can be used in the treatment of colic in babies, when colic occurs soon after feeding. In this case, the baby may be having difficulty digesting the milk, which happens more frequently in babies fed with formula.
- Simethicone: the famous “miracle drops” that are placed on the pacifier and calm babies. Although widely used in the treatment of colic, it only makes sense to use it if the colic results from the baby swallowing air during feedings or when using a pacifier. In these cases, in addition to using the medication, it is necessary to correct the latch on the breast or teat.
- Medicinal plants: peppermint, fennel, chamomile, lemon balm, and licorice, in infusions or liquids, can improve colic. They are particularly effective when colic occurs when solid foods are introduced.
Baby colic can be a challenging journey for parents, and the indiscriminate use of anti-colic medication is not the most appropriate solution. Therefore, understanding the signs, causes, and relief strategies can make all the difference. By adopting an informed and careful approach, parents can help their babies face these difficult moments with more comfort and peace of mind. Remember, count on us if you have any questions; we’re here to help!
