Discovering the Optimal Sleeping Position for Your Colic Baby

Infant colic, also known as newborn colic or infantile colic, presents one of the most challenging and vexing issues in newborn care. While not all newborns experience colic, for those who do, it can be incredibly distressing—endless crying and discomfort not only affect the baby but also torment mothers. Today, Kaiya Baby brings you insights into dealing with baby colic.

Colic isn't a specific disease; rather, it's a 'syndrome' resulting from a variety of factors out of sync. Babies with colic don't typically have any underlying health issues. Colic is most commonly observed in infants under three months of age, though a small fraction may experience it for four to five months or even longer.

What are the signs of a colic baby

Intense Crying: Colicky babies cry intensely and inconsolably, often with a high-pitched or piercing sound. The crying can occur at any time of day, but it often follows a predictable pattern, such as occurring in the late afternoon or evening.

Clenched Fists and Arched Back: During crying episodes, colicky babies might clench their fists, arch their backs, and pull their legs towards their tummy. These physical signs are often indicative of discomfort.

Predictable Patterns: Colic often follows a consistent pattern, with episodes occurring around the same time each day. The crying can last for hours and may be difficult to soothe.

Gassy or Bloated Appearance: Some colicky babies might appear gassy or bloated. They might pass gas frequently and experience tummy discomfort.

Difficulty Calming Down: Colicky babies are often difficult to comfort or soothe. Traditional methods like feeding, changing diapers, or rocking might not alleviate their distress.

Sleep Disturbances: Colic can impact a baby's sleep patterns, leading to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.

Restlessness: Colicky babies may appear restless and have difficulty staying settled, even when held or comforted.

No Obvious Medical Issue: Colic occurs in otherwise healthy babies and doesn't have a clear medical cause. It typically starts within the first few weeks of life and usually resolves on its own by around three to four months of age.

What is the main cause of colic

The exact main cause of colic is still not fully understood and can vary from baby to baby. However, several factors are believed to contribute to colic:

Gastrointestinal Immaturity: Babies' digestive systems are still developing, and their digestive processes might be inefficient or sensitive, leading to discomfort.

Gas and Digestive Discomfort: Excessive gas or trapped air in the digestive tract can cause discomfort and contribute to colic symptoms.

Immature Nervous System: A baby's nervous system is still developing, and their ability to regulate sensory stimuli might be overwhelmed, leading to increased fussiness and crying.

Hormonal Factors: Hormonal changes in babies can also influence their behavior, including bouts of colic.

Overstimulation: Babies might become overstimulated by their environment, leading to stress and discomfort that manifests as colic.

Feeding Issues: Improper feeding techniques or issues such as feeding too quickly or ingesting air during feeding can contribute to colic.

Parental Stress: Sometimes, a baby's colic can be exacerbated by parental stress or tension, creating a cycle of discomfort.

What time is colic the worst?

Colic symptoms often follow a consistent pattern, and the worst time for colic is usually in the late afternoon or evening. The exact timing can vary from baby to baby, but it's common for colicky episodes to start in the late afternoon, peak in the evening, and gradually subside during the night. This timeframe can be challenging for both the baby and the parents, as the baby's crying and fussiness can be most intense during these hours.

It's important to remember that while the late afternoon and evening are often when colic symptoms are at their peak, colicky episodes can occur at any time of day. The pattern of crying and fussiness may not be consistent for every baby, but many parents find that managing colic during the evening hours requires additional attention and soothing techniques.

What is the best sleeping position to relieve colic?

Back Sleeping: Placing the baby on their back is the recommended sleep position for safety and can help prevent Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). This position also avoids pressure on the abdomen, potentially easing colic discomfort.

Elevated Sleeping: Some parents find that slightly elevating the baby's head by placing a folded blanket or towel under the crib mattress can aid digestion and reduce reflux, helping with colic.

Side Lying: Laying the baby on their side might alleviate abdominal discomfort and gas for some babies. Ensure they're comfortably positioned and supported.

Cradled in Arm: Holding the baby in your arm's crook, allowing their chest to rest gently against your chest, can provide a sense of security and comfort. 

Supine Sleep with Slight Incline: In some cases, placing the baby on their back with their head slightly elevated can help with colic symptoms. Make sure the head is higher than the chest to prevent reflux.

Tummy Time on Lap: Gently placing the baby on their tummy across your lap or a soft surface can aid in releasing gas and soothing discomfort.

Natural Position: Allowing the baby to sleep in a comfortable, natural position that they prefer can also be considered.

What are other ways to help a colicky baby?

While the medical community continues to research the issue of infant colic, the exact cause remains elusive, and the long-term consequences are not clear. Effective treatments for colic are currently lacking. The methods provided below can only provide partial relief for baby colic and may be effective in specific situations.

Before attributing crying to colic, mothers should investigate the underlying reasons for the baby's distress. This includes ruling out pathological causes like gastroesophageal reflux, pyloric obstruction, or congenital megacolon. Seek medical attention if the baby exhibits fever, paleness, recurrent vomiting, blood in stool, or other concerning symptoms.

Pacifier Soothing: Offer a pacifier between feedings to help soothe the baby and prevent loud crying.

Maintain a Quiet Environment: Provide a separate and quiet space for the baby. Speaking softly and moving gently can help calm the baby.

Baby Massage: Gently massage the baby's back and apply soothing substances like mint oil on their abdomen to aid in gas expulsion and bowel movement.

Aid in Gas and Bowel Movement: Some medications that improve gastrointestinal motility or infant glycerin suppositories can help the baby release gas and have a bowel movement.

Tummy Time: Some colicky babies might benefit from tummy time, as immature digestive systems or milk intolerance could contribute to discomfort. Formula-fed babies could consider switching to partially hydrolyzed formula.

Comfort and Warmth: When the baby cries, wrap them in a soft towel and place them in a cradle or stroller for gentle rocking. Using a front-facing baby carrier on your lap can also help.

Avoid Vigorous Shaking: While seeking to soothe a fussy baby, avoid vigorous shaking. Excessive shaking can result in serious brain injury or even death. Control the intensity of any rocking or movement.

Applying Warm Compress to Soothe Baby's Tummy: When a baby experiences colic, it's advisable to hold them upright with their head resting on your shoulder. Gently patting their back can help release excess air from their stomach. Additionally, softly massaging the baby's abdomen can provide comfort. You can also use a warm water bottle (ensuring the water temperature is below 60°C) wrapped in a towel and place it on the baby's tummy for a brief warm compress. It's important to avoid prolonged application.

Do colic babies sleep during the day

Yes, colicky babies do sleep during the day, just like any other babies. However, the sleep patterns of colicky babies can vary. Some colicky babies might have shorter and more disrupted daytime naps due to their discomfort and fussiness. On the other hand, some colicky babies might sleep more during the day as a way to cope with their crying episodes during the night.

It's important to remember that each baby is unique, and their sleep patterns can be influenced by a variety of factors, including their temperament, feeding habits, and overall health.

What is the 3 3 3 rule for colic?

The "3-3-3 rule" for colic is a guideline that suggests that a baby might be experiencing colic if they meet the following criteria:

3 Hours of Crying: The baby cries for at least 3 hours a day.

3 Days a Week: The crying occurs on at least 3 days a week.

Lasts for 3 Weeks: This pattern persists for at least 3 weeks.

The 3-3-3 rule is a simplified way to help parents and caregivers identify whether a baby's excessive crying might be due to colic. However, it's important to remember that the rule is just a guideline, and not all babies who meet these criteria necessarily have colic. If you suspect your baby might have colic, it's a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any other potential causes of the excessive crying and discomfort.

Distinguishing Colic from Similar Conditions

When considering colic, it's important to rule out other potential medical issues that could present similar symptoms. Here are some medical conditions that might share similarities with colic:

Digestive Issues: Certain digestive problems such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastric spasms, irritable bowel syndrome, and more can lead to abdominal discomfort and fussiness in babies.

Allergies or Intolerances: Food allergies or intolerances might cause gastrointestinal discomfort in babies, leading to symptoms similar to colic.

Gastrointestinal Infections: Gastrointestinal infections can result in abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and fussiness. These symptoms often come with other signs like fever.

Gastrointestinal Obstruction: Obstruction or narrowing in the gastrointestinal tract can cause pain and discomfort due to food not passing smoothly.

Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorder: This rare infant gastrointestinal disorder can lead to abdominal discomfort and spasms.

Neurological Issues: In some cases, neurological issues affecting the central nervous system might present with symptoms resembling colic, requiring exclusion.

Other Medical Conditions: Several other uncommon medical conditions could lead to abdominal discomfort and fussiness in babies.

When suspecting colic in a baby, it's advisable to seek guidance from a pediatrician. A doctor can perform necessary evaluations and tests to rule out other potential medical issues, ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.