What causes infant colic? This is the million dollar question that still seems to have no definitive answer. There are of course, many theories on the causes of colic, and just as many colic treatments to help ease the symptoms. The real question is: what really works?

Well, any parent who has tried to find a solution to infant colic can tell you that it often seems like an answer is way out of reach. However, there are some things you can do if your baby is suffering from what seems to be colic. Remember, colic is defined as crying that lasts for three hours or longer, three or more days a week. The crying can happen in the evenings, or it can last all day.

Easing the Symptoms of Infant Colic

If your baby seems to be in pain, and draws his or her legs into the chest, turns red in the face, passes gas frequently, and has difficulty falling asleep, than excessive gas may be a problem. Often times, colic medications like gripe water help relieve abdominal discomfort naturally. Trapped gas is broken up and the baby is able to pass the gas that has been turning his or her intestines into painful knots.

Another great way to treat infant colic is with massage and motion. Babies who suffer from colic often derive comfort from having their belly massaged, which again, may help break up trapped gas. In addition, holding baby close to your chest in a chest carrier while walking around often soothes a baby enough that they stop crying and actually fall asleep.