I am very fortunate because I do not have colicky babies. However, I have one with a mild Reflux problem. Being a ‘veteran’ mom, I observe a pattern and consulted my paediatrician.
In brief, my paediatrician told me that the difference between a colicky Baby and one who suffers from reflux is the pattern in their cries. A colicky one will cry at almost the same time each day. A baby who has reflux fusses the whole day.
Until now, no one knows what cause colic. Though there are many theories and supposed cure for colics, several paediatricians had told me that usually they cannot exactly pinpoint what cause colic.
On MyMomsBest parenting website and forum, we have provided many suggestions to ease colic pain. We have also listed out a list of foods that breastfeeding mothers should avoid such as alchohol, Chinese herbs, certain group of food that can cause allergies (which cause a bloated tummy in baby) and etc.
Note that formula Milk is one of the main problem in causing colic because many human babies cannot tolerate cow’s milk and some also cannot tolerate soy based milk.
The days and weeks when a parent brings back a new baby can be stressful. If a baby develops a pattern of crying or cry incessantly, one ought to check if the baby is suffering from colic or reflux.
For my 5th son, I notice that after his milk feed, he would have a very uncomfortable look on his face. Then, he seems to burp and swallow back some milk. This will be followed by fussing and kicking.
His problem was solved after the paediatrician gave him something to tighten his stomach muscles. Explain in easy to understand term, the muscles are weak and hence, his milk and stomach acid travelled out of his food pipe (esophagus) and therefore, cause him severe discomforts. Very much like how pregnant mothers suffers heartburn.
I found this informative site on Gastroesophageal Reflux. One of our parenting forum member experience crying newborn. I am sure she will find these information very useful:
– constant eating and drinking (to soothe a sore throat)
– refusing food or accepting only a few bites besides being hungry
– poor sleep habits, frequent waking
– pain, irritability, constant or sudden crying, “colic”
– frequent spitting-up or vomiting
Visit PAGER
The Pediatric / Adolescent Gastreosophageal Reflux Association (PAGER) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides information and support to parents and children (infants to teens) dealing with Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER). We have been helping you and your child deal with acid reflux and related disorders since 1992.
Remember – a new baby is a joy to hold. Don’t let his cries mar this happy moment. Seek your doctor’s help. (And please don’t believe in mumbo-jumbo and traditional treatment.)
Originally posted 2005-12-07 10:28:21.
