Treating Colic

There actually isn’t any one single treatment has proven itself to be absolute in curing colic. However there are ways to make life easier for both you and your colicky baby.

First of all, you should check to see if your baby is hungry. With young babies, you simply place your finger under his chin and if he tries to suck or move toward it, then he is hungry. However, if your baby is not hungry, don't try to continue the feeding as it is a waste of time. Instead, try to console your little one in some of the ways listed below. Contrary to what people say, this is not spoiling the child. Some of the things that you can do to console baby are as follows:

• Walk with your baby or sit in a rocking chair. The continuing movement is always soothing to a baby. Just be sure to place his head near your chest so that he can hear your heartbeat.

• Try burping your baby more often during feedings.

• Place your baby across your lap while he lies on his belly and rub your baby's back. This will help get air out of his tummy and prevent gas. If he burps; even better.

• Put your baby in a swing as this swaying motion may have a soothing effect.

• Put your baby in a car seat and go for a ride. The vibration and movement of the car are often calming. You can also place him on a washing machine or running dryer. The movements and the sounds are very soothing.

• Play music like classical or slow music as some babies respond to sound as well as movement.


Caring for a colicky baby can be extremely frustrating for both the baby and the parent, so be sure to take care of you, too. You can’t be soothing to the baby if you are riled up you will not be able to soothe the baby. For mothers this can be even harder to deal with.

Mothers need to try to relax, and remember that your baby will eventually outgrow this phase. You should remember that, if you need a break from your baby's crying, take one. There is nothing wrong with this. Friends and relatives are often happy to watch your baby when you need some time to yourself, even if he is crying. If no one is available, it's OK to put the baby down in the crib, let him cry and take a break before making another attempt.

You can always use a walkman to blot out the cries so that you are not tempted to listen to it. You should never overwhelm yourself. If your baby takes a nap, you should do the same. Believe me, you will need it. There is more that you can do to help your baby, and they are listed below.