Top reasons why your baby is crying

      WHY YOUR BABY IS CRYING? WHEN TO WORRY..

1) HUNGER CRY

 Most common reasons babies cry out of hunger. Remember crying is a late sign of hunger. Mothers usually ask a question- 'how often should we feed? Should we feed whenever the baby cries?' So, the answer is there is nothing like feed the baby every 2nd hourly or 3rd hourly. You will have to learn the feeding cues of your baby and that will come by time. I will be talking on how to identify the feeding cues in your baby in subsequent blogs. Crying is a late sign and you should feed your baby before the baby cries for milk. If you are doubtful about your milk production better idea is to visit lactational counseller.

2) WET/ SOILED DIAPER

Another good idea is to always check the diaper if the diaper is soiled or wet. I have seen parents using superabsorbent  diapers and changing them very infrequently. Its good to use superabsorbent diapers but the diaper should be changed every 3-4 hours even at night. Not doing that may lead to diaper rash and uncomfort  to a baby. Diapers should also be not too tight for the baby.

3) UNCOMFORTABLE CLOTHING

Make sure that clothing of the baby is not too tight. The innermost layer of the baby clothing should be cotton. Avoid the fancy synthetic clothes for they may cause skin rash to baby.  Do not over wrap the baby. In summers , if u want to put u can put cotton cap, mittens and socks if needed. In winters these can be replaced by woollen ones. However the baby should not be left naked too/ she should not feel cold. 

4) BABY WANTS TO BE HELD

Sometimes all that the baby wants is cuddle and to be held in lap. Hold the baby in your lap, cuddle her.. talk to her... sing to her.. sometimes the baby just wants the human touch to get calm and sleep.

5) BABY MAY WANT CHANGE

Sometimes all that the baby wants is a change of place. I have seen patients coming at 2 am because of persistent crying and when i see them they are absolutely playful and calm. Sometimes babies want a change in place or change of toys. Just try that before panicking.

6) ABDOMINAL PAIN

Infant colic or what we say as abdominal pain usually starts after 2 weeks in babies and it is usually prominent in the evening hours or night time. Out of pain baby may refuse the feeding too. And believe me this crying is the most troublesome for the parents as it doesnt get relieved very soon. Treatment is proper positioning of feeding and attachment , burping well, and use of anticolic medications (only to be prescribed by the pediatrician)

7) DIAPER RASH

Make sure to check the diaper area for rash. Diaper rash can be very very painful for the baby. Seek the expert help if you find any rash in the diaper area.

 At anytime you feel a sudden change in behaviour of the baby like excessive dullness , green vomitings, refusal of feed or abnormal movements- contact your nearest pediatrician immediately!!!

Take care

Dr Priyanka