Infant Gas Pains (Colic): What It Is and How to Address It. By Dr. Narmin Azizova & Dr. Ali Guliyev

Infant Gas Pains (Colic): What It Is and How to Address It. 

By Dr. Narmin Azizova, Scientific Research Institute of Pediatrics named after K.Y. Farajova and Dr. Ali Guliyev, MedEra Hospital

First, it’s important to note that colic (gas pain) is not a disease. It refers to episodes of unexplained crying and discomfort in infants that are not related to hunger or any other identifiable cause. Colic episodes are common in healthy babies and generally occur between the 2nd and 3rd weeks of life, peaking at 4 months of age. In some cases, these episodes can extend up to 6 months. These episodes can last for more than 3 hours a day, 3 days a week, and can continue for several weeks. Statistically, 1 in 4 infants experience colic symptoms, making it quite prevalent among newborns.

What are the signs of colic (Gas pain)?

During a colic episode, babies may display various signs that indicate they are experiencing discomfort:

1. Legs pulled up: Babies often pull their legs toward their belly in an attempt to relieve the discomfort caused by trapped gas.
2. Crying and irritability: Colic episodes typically occur at night or in the late afternoon and can last anywhere from 1 to 2 hours (or more).
3. Physical tension: During these episodes, a baby’s body may stiffen, and their face may turn red. Sometimes, their limbs may even become slightly blue in color. The discomfort usually subsides once gas or stool is passed.
4. Frequent waking and crying: Babies suffering from colic are often highly sensitive and may wake up crying several times during the night. However, during breaks in the crying, they will usually return to being calm and content.

Interestingly, babies often calm down when they are placed in a moving car or during a trip in an ambulance, which can soothe them and even help them fall asleep. Parents often report, “They calmed down when we were in the car.”

Why do colic episodes occur?

The primary cause of colic is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute:

1. Development of the Nervous System: Babies’ nervous systems are still maturing, making them more sensitive to external stimuli. This heightened sensitivity often results in crying, which typically begins by the third week of life.
2. Immature Digestive System: Infants’ digestive systems aren’t fully developed, and certain feeding practices can exacerbate colic, such as inconsistent feeding times, introduction of additional fluids, or feeding the baby sweetened foods or liquids.
3. Diet and Gas: Inadequate burping after feeding or excessive air ingestion during bottle feeding can contribute to gas pain. Special anti-colic bottles can help minimize air intake.
4. Certain Foods in Breastfeeding Mothers’ Diets: Sometimes, the substances in the mother’s diet can pass into breast milk and affect the baby. Spicy foods, certain vegetables like broccoli or onions, and beverages like coffee should be avoided to reduce the likelihood of colic episodes.

How long does colic last?

Colic typically starts around the 2nd to 4th week of life and can peak in severity around 6 to 8 weeks. Most infants show significant improvement or complete resolution of colic symptoms by 4 months of age.

Common causes of colic:

Gastrointestinal causes:

• Increased peristalsis: The baby’s digestive system may be moving food along too quickly or slowly.
• Carbohydrate malabsorption: Conditions like lactose intolerance may cause gas pain.
• Protein intolerance: Some babies may react to certain proteins found in breast milk or formula.
• Gastroesophageal reflux: This condition can lead to discomfort during feeding.

Psychosocial causes:

• Poor bonding between mother and baby.
• Maternal stress or anxiety.
• Lack of adequate attention or affection from the mother.
• Inexperienced parenting.

Ways to relieve colic (Gas Pain):

There are several methods to alleviate the symptoms of colic:

1. Holding Your Baby: Holding your baby during an episode of crying can be soothing. Don’t worry about “spoiling” your baby during the first 4 months. Holding or rocking your baby can help calm them.
2. Burp Frequently: Ensure your baby is burped after every feeding. If using formula, check that the nipple on the bottle is the right size, as a poorly fitting nipple can cause the baby to swallow air while feeding.
3. Adjust the Mother’s Diet: If breastfeeding, pay attention to your diet. Avoid spicy foods, dairy, caffeine, and certain vegetables (e.g., broccoli, onions, garlic) that could contribute to gas pain in your baby.
4. Comfort Measures: Activities like using gentle massage on your baby’s belly or making bicycle movements with their legs can help relieve gas. Some parents even report that the sound of a hairdryer or vacuum cleaner can soothe their baby.

Treatment options

There have been various treatments recommended for colic, but no single method has been proven universally effective. Herbal teas such as fennel, chamomile, ginger, or peppermint have been used, but their efficacy and safety can vary. It’s also important to avoid using certain over-the-counter medications or products without consulting a pediatrician.

Additional Considerations

• Physical Activity: Active babies tend to experience fewer colic symptoms. Encouraging movement can help them relieve gas naturally.
• Psychosocial Support: For mothers, managing stress and maintaining a supportive environment is essential. Having someone to share caregiving duties can reduce stress for both the parent and the baby.

When to seek medical help?

If your baby’s crying episodes are exceptionally severe, if they seem to be in constant pain, or if you notice additional symptoms like fever or vomiting, it is important to consult a pediatrician to rule out any other underlying conditions.

Summary:

While colic can be a distressing experience for both babies and parents, it is usually a temporary condition that resolves with time. By providing comfort and ensuring your baby’s basic needs are met, the episodes can be managed effectively.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the impact of conditions like colic on infant health, emphasizing the importance of supportive care and parental education. Always consult your healthcare provider to discuss treatment options and strategies for managing colic, ensuring the well-being of both the baby and the parents.

Conclusion:

Colic, though challenging for both infants and parents, is a temporary condition that typically resolves by 4 to 6 months of age. With proper care, including soothing techniques, consistent feeding routines, and emotional support for parents, most babies can overcome this discomfort without long-term effects. Seeking medical guidance ensures that parents are equipped with the right tools and information to manage their baby’s colic effectively and promote overall health and well-being.