There are a great many old wives' tales about colic, and just as many
remedies, most of which don't work. Despite what your great-grandma may
have done, it's probably not a good idea to dip the child's pacifier in
the whiskey bottle to try to remedy the situation. Similarly, just
"letting the baby cry it out" isn't going to work. Colic requires
attention.
Some parents have had success in dietary changes, which of course
supports the theory of colic being gastrointestinal. If you are nursing
a baby that appears to be colicky, then pay close attention to your own
diet, because what you eat is being passed on to the baby. Try laying
off the jalapeno-laced burritos and greasy fried foods for a while, and
see if you notice a difference. If you are bottle feeding, the child
may have an intolerance to lactose.
Some naturopathic and herbal healers have had some success with things
like weak fennel tea. In many cases, the only thing you can do is to
soothe the baby as well as you can with things like car rides, swings,
or just holding the baby or going for a walk.
But if no amount of dietary changes or natural remedies will help, your
pediatrician should be consulted to rule out any obvious physical
problems. Your pediatrician will be quick to tell you though, that
"colic" is an imprecise term, and there is little he or she can offer
you. There's no quick fix, no pill, no shot that can be given to "cure"
it. You'll lose some sleep and become frustrated, but remember, it will
pass with time.
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