With the birth of your new baby comes a lot of new challenges and experiences. One of these experiences is the gas that infants may experience during their first few months of life. Infant gas is a common issue that can cause discomfort for the baby and parents alike. In this article, we will cover the topic of infant gas, its cause, symptoms, and some possible solutions to alleviate it.
What is gas in babies
Gas in babies refers to the collection of air in the intestines during digestion. This gas can cause bloating and pain, and make the infant uncomfortable and upset.
Causes of gas in babies
There are several causes of gas in babies:
- Immature digestive system: In the first months of life, infants’ digestive system is still immature enough to break down some types of food, leading to gas buildup.
- Swallowing air: During feeding or bottle feeding, your baby may swallow small amounts of air along with the food, which increases the buildup of gas in the intestines.
- Food allergies: If you are breastfeeding, some of the foods you eat may cause your baby to have increased gas, such as legumes and cabbage.
Symptoms of gas in babies
Symptoms of gas in infants present differently and include:
- Frequent crying and difficulty in calming the baby.
- Cramps and contractions in the abdominal area.
- Changes in sleep pattern.
How to relieve gas in babies
Here are some ways that can help relieve gas in babies:
- Feeding properly: Make sure the baby is feeding properly and not swallowing air while feeding.
- Change position: Try changing your baby’s position while feeding or after feeding, as this may help move the gas around in the intestines.
- Massage the tummy: Gently massage the baby’s tummy in clockwise circular motions.
- Use heat: Use a warm mat on the baby’s tummy to relieve pain and discomfort.
Conclusion
Gas in infants is common and normal, and often disappears over time once the infant’s digestive system has matured. If you are concerned about your baby’s health or if symptoms persist for a long time and increase in severity, do not hesitate to consult your pediatrician for additional advice and guidance.
If you are concerned about your baby’s health, do not hesitate to consult your pediatrician for additional advice and guidance.
