These baby conditions are common and not life threatening but they can make your baby uncomfortable. Here's how to help her feel better.
COLIC
About half of all babies develop colic. It normally starts in their first month and eases off by the time they're 3 months. It tends to strike in the evening, although it can come on during the day, too. ‘Colic is common, but we still don't know why some babies are prone to it,' says Caroline Deacon, author of Babycalming (£8.99, Thorsons Element). ‘It may be due to an immature digestive system, but in some cases it might be due to other factors such as lactose intolerance.' The build-up of tiny bubbles in the gut or bowel is another possible cause.
Signs and symptoms
She'll be unsettled at feeding times, clenching her fists and pulling her legs up to her chest. Her crying will turn into screaming, especially in the evenings and she may be unable to bring up wind after a feed.
How to treat it
‘Infant colic drops before feeds or gripe water often does the trick,' says Prima Baby expert GP Rob Hicks. ‘Weak camomile tea is a natural alternative as is Colief, which is available without a prescription,' he adds. Rhythmic rocking or a gentle back or tummy massage may comfort him. Humming sounds, like a vacuum cleaner or washing machine, seem to settle colicky babies, as can slow car trips. The constant crying can be wearing on you as a mum. ‘If you're becoming upset or overtired during a bout of colic, place your baby in his cot and leave the room for 10 minutes. Colic isn't life threatening and will pass,' says Caroline.
- Try Infacol, £3.39 for 50ml; Colief, £9.99 for 7ml; Woodward's Gripe Water, £2.49 for 150ml, all from pharmacies.
Also try...
Gentle baby massage can help relax a tense tummy. Try Spirit Of Nature Colic Rub, £5.95 for 75ml, visit www.spiritofnature.co.uk; or Weleda Baby Calendula Oil, £6.95 for 200ml, from pharmacies.
Health alert!
If your baby seems in pain and is also suffering from constant vomiting or diarrhoea, seek medical advice.
NAPPY RASH
Most babies get nappy rash, often as a result of a wet or dirty nappy, which causes an uncomfortable build-up of ammonia. Sometimes a change in diet can make it worse. Moist and irritated skin is also more vulnerable to thrush - an overgrowth of candida, a yeast that lives naturally on the skin. Don't worry, if you act quickly, your baby's
symptoms are easily treated.
Signs and symptoms
The skin in the nappy area will be red, often with pimples and blotches. The redness may also spread down the legs or onto the tummy. If ammonia build-up is to blame, the folds of your baby's skin should look clear, as these won't be in contact with the ammonia. With thrush, the rash will be quite inflamed with visible spots called satellite lesions around the edges.
How to treat it
To prevent nappy rash, change her nappy as soon as it's wet or dirty and protect her skin with a good barrier cream. Wash cloth nappies in non-bio detergent. As soon as you notice red, sore skin around her
bottom, wash her with cotton wool and warm water (use soap or wipes if she's had a poo). Dry gently with a soft towel. Thrush is easily treated with an over-the-counter remedy from your pharmacist.
- Try Sudocrem, £2.17 for 125g; E45 Nappy Cream, £5.99 for 125g; or Metanium Ointment, £3.49 for 30g, all from pharmacies and some supermarkets.
Also try...
Let her go nappy free as often as possible so air circulates around her skin. If it doesn't get any better or it looks infected, your GP may prescribe an antibiotic cream.
Health alert!
If the irritation doesn't improve after two or three days, or you notice the rash has become dark red in colour or slightly raised or swollen, see your GP.
TEETHING
Most children cut their first teeth at around 6 months, with the front teeth appearing first. ‘These teeth are sharp and cut through - it's the back teeth that tend to be more painful,' says Rob. ‘Many babies sail through teething without problems while others become irritable and go off their feeds.'
Signs and symptoms
Irritability, restless nights and dribbling can all be signs, as can gnawing on everything within reach. One cheek may also be hot and flushed as the tooth pushes upwards. Teething can cause mild diarrhoea, or a chesty cough and a raised temperature.
If she has a temperature of 38°C or more, or severe symptoms, don't just put it down to teething. See your GP if you're unsure.
How to treat it
‘Massage your baby's gums with your finger while applying a teething gel,' says Rob. ‘Give your baby something hard to chew on, such as a dry crust of bread or a biscuit, but don't leave her alone with it in case she chokes. A teething ring chilled in cold water, not the freezer, is also soothing, and baby paracetamol will help relieve the discomfort,' he adds.
- Try Calgel Teething Gel, £1.79 for 10g; Bonjela Teething Gel, £2.27 for 15g, both from pharmacies and supermarkets; or a Gummy Teether, £2.99, Tommee Tippee. Call 0500 979899 for stockists.
Also try...
To help numb the pain, fold a clean, dry flannel into triangles, saturate a corner with water, pop in a plastic bag and freeze. Let her chew on one of the ice-cold corners whenever teething becomes painful.
Health alert!
Keep her gums and new teeth clean to reduce the risk of infection and soreness.
Want tried-and-tested advice from mums who know?
Try these ideas and at-home remedies from mums who have been chatting on www.babyexpert.co.uk
Soothe colic
‘Try weak fennel tea. It has a reasonably pleasant liquorice taste that my baby liked.’
‘I used to cuddle my baby really tightly and let him sleep on my chest. That seemed to work.’
Ease teething pain
‘I swear by a natural remedy called Ashton & Parsons Infants’ Powders from Boots.’
‘I recommend using a homeopathic remedy by Nelsons called Teetha, available from chemists. It comes in small packets of granules. I noticed the difference after only two uses.’
Treat nappy rash
‘If your baby’s bottom is particularly sore, drying it with a towel can be irritating and painful for her. Instead, I lay my daughter on my lap and dry her using a hair dryer on the coolest setting.’
‘Try Earth Friendly Baby Natural Red Clover Nappy Care Cream – it’s a traditional cure for nappy rash and does the trick.’
For more on your child's health see www.netdoctor.co.uk
