Understanding Reflux and Colic in Infants: A Guide for Parents

Understanding Reflux and Colic in Infants: A Guide for Parents

As a new parent, it can be distressing to see your baby in discomfort. Two common issues that infants face are reflux and colic. While they may seem similar at first glance, they are distinct conditions with different causes and treatments. This blog post will help you understand the differences between reflux and colic, explore treatment options, and provide you with valuable resources.

What is Colic?

Colic is defined as episodes of crying for more than three hours a day, for more than three days a week, for at least three weeks in another wise healthy infant. The exact cause is unknown, but it's thought to be related to digestive discomfort and is common in newborns regardless of whether they're breast or formula-fed. It starts around 2 weeks and tends to resolve by6 months.  

Symptoms of Colic:

• Intense, inconsolable crying, often in the late afternoon or evening
• Clenched fists, arched back, and pulled-up legs during crying episodes
• Reddened face
• Passing wind

What is Reflux?

Gastroesophageal reflux (GOR) occurs when stomach contents come back up into the oesophagus with or without regurgitation and/or vomiting. It's common in infants due to their immature digestive systems and is often referred to as "spitting up" or "posseting". Reflux usually starts before your baby is 8 weeks old and improves by the time they’re 1.

Symptoms of Reflux:

• Frequent spitting up or vomiting
• Irritability during or after feeding
• Arching of the back during feeding
• Coughing or wheezing
• Poor weight gain

Key Differences

While both conditions can cause discomfort, there are crucial differences:

• Timing: Colic often follows a pattern and may occur at the same time each day, while reflux is more likely to happen after feeding.
• Duration: Colic typically resolves by 5-6 months, while reflux can persist longer but usually stops by the time baby is one year old.
• Feeding behaviour: Babies with reflux may resist feeding or stop feeding frequently, while colicky babies generally feed normally.
• Physical Symptoms: Reflux is often accompanied by spitting up or vomiting, which is not typically seen with colic.
• Response to Comfort: Colicky babies are often difficult to soothe, while babies with reflux may be comforted by being held upright.

Treatment Options

For Reflux:

1. Feed in an upright position and keep your baby upright for 30 minutes after feeding
2. Burp your baby frequently during feeds
3. If relevant, trial giving formula-fed babies smaller feeds more often
4. Trial thickening feeds or a thickened formula (only under medical advice)
5. In severe cases, medication may be prescribed by a doctor

For Colic:

1. Try different soothing techniques (swaddling, white noise, hold them, gentle motion, warm bath)
2. Ensure a calm environment
3. Consider adjusting your diet if breastfeeding and there is a clear pattern between your diet and baby’s symptoms. Any significant dietary changes should be discussed with a healthcare professional such as a registered Dietitian to avoid nutritional deficiencies.
4. Try infant massage with gentle, circular strokes on the tummy.
5. Discuss probiotic drops with your health visitor or GP. However, the overall evidence is still mixed. Some infants seem to benefit, while others show no significant improvement.

Remember, every baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. It's always best to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options. With patience and support, both colic and reflux are manageable conditions that your baby willlikely outgrow.

Resources

1. NHS Website: Offers comprehensive information on both reflux and colic. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/reflux-in-babies/ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/colic/

2. Cry-sis: A support organisation for parents with crying and sleepless babies. https://cry-sis.org.uk/

3. National Childbirth Trust (NCT): Provides support and information for new parents. https://www.nct.org.uk/

4. The Breastfeeding Network: Offers support for breastfeeding mothers, including those dealing with reflux. https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/

5. NICE Guidelines: For healthcare professionals and parents seeking evidence-based information. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng1

6. National Breastfeeding Helpline: Breastfeeding information and support available 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Call 0300 100 0212 (9.30am to 9.30pm, daily) https://www.nationalbreastfeedinghelpline.org.uk/

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