What are the ways to relieve infant colic and gas?

Infantile colic and intestinal gas may be caused by improper feeding, a cold abdomen, indigestion, lactose intolerance, or intestinal obstruction. These conditions can usually be managed by adjusting feeding methods, keeping the abdomen warm, medication, and necessary medical interventions. If any abnormalities occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Improper feeding: When feeding an infant, feeding too quickly, providing excessive milk volume, or using incorrect feeding positions may cause the baby to swallow large amounts of air, leading to colic and intestinal gas. Adjustments should include slowing the feeding pace, controlling milk volume, ensuring proper feeding posture, and gently patting the infant's back after feeding to help expel swallowed air.

2. Cold abdomen: When an infant’s abdomen becomes chilled, the smooth muscles of the intestines may contract, increasing intestinal motility and triggering colic and bloating. It is advisable to dress infants appropriately and keep their abdomens warm to prevent chilling.

3. Indigestion: Infants have immature digestive systems. Consuming hard-to-digest or excessive food may lead to indigestion, causing colic and intestinal gas, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as poor appetite and diarrhea. Dietary adjustments should be made by offering easily digestible foods. Under medical guidance, medications such as Bifidobacterium Trilive Capsules, Bacillus Subtilis and Enterococcus Faecalis Di-live Granules, or Clostridium Butyricum Live Bacteria Powder may be used to promote digestion.

4. Lactose intolerance: This condition occurs when infants lack lactase enzyme, making them unable to break down lactose in breast milk or formula. Undigested lactose ferments in the gut, producing excessive gas and resulting in colic and bloating, often accompanied by diarrhea and abdominal distension. Management includes switching to low-lactose or lactose-free formula, or using lactase supplements under medical supervision.

5. Intestinal obstruction: This refers to a partial blockage in the intestine that prevents normal passage of intestinal contents, potentially causing severe colic and gas accumulation. Associated symptoms may include vomiting, constipation, and palpable abdominal masses. Medical intervention is required depending on the cause and severity, including surgical treatment or conservative management such as fasting, enemas, and fluid replacement.

In daily life, parents should closely monitor their infant’s eating habits and bowel movements, promptly adjust feeding practices, keep the baby’s abdomen warm, and avoid exposure to cold and infections.