Understanding the Causes, Symptoms and Natural Ways to Support Your Baby

Is Your Baby Crying for Hours at a Time?

Few things are more distressing for parents than hearing their baby cry inconsolably and not knowing how to help. If your otherwise healthy infant experiences prolonged periods of crying, particularly during the late afternoon or evening, they may be experiencing infant colic.

Colic affects many babies during their first few months of life and can leave parents feeling exhausted, frustrated, and helpless. While colic is common and usually temporary, understanding what may be contributing to your baby's discomfort can help you find gentle ways to provide support.

What Is Infant Colic?

Infant colic is a condition characterised by frequent, prolonged periods of crying in an otherwise healthy baby. It typically develops between two weeks and four months of age and often follows a predictable pattern.

Babies experiencing colic may:

• Cry intensely for extended periods
• Be difficult to settle or comfort
• Pull their knees toward their chest
• Clench their fists
• Arch their back
• Have a bloated or distended tummy
• Pass excessive wind or gas
• Appear uncomfortable after feeding

Although colic is not considered harmful, it can be extremely challenging for both infants and parents.

What Causes Colic in Babies?

The exact cause of colic remains unclear, but healthcare professionals and researchers believe several factors may contribute, including:

Immature Digestive System

A baby's digestive system is still developing during the first months of life. This immaturity may contribute to digestive discomfort, gas, bloating, and feeding challenges.

Gas and Indigestion

Some babies appear to experience abdominal discomfort related to trapped wind, indigestion, or digestive upset. Relief is often observed after passing gas or having a bowel movement.

Food Sensitivities

Certain babies may be sensitive to proteins found in formula or foods consumed by breastfeeding mothers.

Developing Nervous System

A baby's nervous system is rapidly developing after birth. Some experts believe colic may be related to heightened sensitivity to stimulation during this stage of growth.

Emotional and Environmental Factors

Changes in routine, overstimulation, and environmental stressors may also play a role in some infants.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

If your baby is crying excessively, it is important to consult your healthcare professional, paediatrician, or maternal health nurse. They can rule out any underlying medical conditions and provide personalised guidance.

Seek immediate medical attention if your baby develops:

• Fever
• Vomiting
• Difficulty feeding
• Poor weight gain
• Persistent diarrhoea
• Signs of illness or lethargy

Natural Ways to Support a Baby with Colic

Once serious medical causes have been excluded, many parents explore gentle, natural approaches to support their baby's comfort.

These may include:

• Gentle tummy massage
• Burping during and after feeds
• Warm baths
• Skin-to-skin contact
• Swaddling
• Reviewing feeding techniques
• Dietary modifications where appropriate under professional guidance

How New Era Combination E May Help Support Infant Digestive Comfort

For generations, families have turned to tissue salts as a gentle wellness option for supporting everyday health concerns.

New Era Combination E is a specialised tissue salt formulation traditionally used to support:

• Healthy digestion
• Abdominal comfort
• Flatulence and wind
• Colicky discomfort
• Digestive cramps
• Nervous tension associated with discomfort

The carefully selected mineral combination has been formulated to provide gentle support for digestive discomfort.

Why Parents Choose New Era Tissue Salts

New Era Tissue Salts have been trusted by families worldwide for more than 100 years.

Key benefits include:

✔ Gentle and easy to administer

✔ Safe for infants and young children 

✔ Fast-melt mini tablets

✔ Can be dissolved in a small amount of water for easy administration

The tiny tablets dissolve quickly and may be administered directly or mixed with a little water and given using a spoon or dropper.

Supporting Your Baby Through Colic

Although infant colic can feel overwhelming, remember that it is usually a temporary phase that improves as your baby's digestive and nervous systems mature.

Seeking professional advice, maintaining patience, and exploring gentle support options may help make this period more manageable for both you and your baby.

Every baby is unique, and finding the right combination of comfort measures can help support happier days and more restful nights for the whole family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colic

At what age does colic usually start?

Colic commonly begins between 2 weeks and 6 weeks of age and often improves by 3 to 4 months.

Does colic mean my baby is sick?

Not usually. Colic occurs in otherwise healthy babies, but medical assessment is important to rule out other causes of distress.

Can gas cause colic symptoms?

Gas, bloating, and digestive discomfort may contribute to colic-like symptoms in some babies.

What is a natural remedy for colic?

Natural support options may include tummy massage, feeding adjustments, comforting techniques, and traditionally used tissue salt formulations such as New Era Combination E.

While infant colic can be a challenging and emotional experience for families, it is often a temporary stage that improves as your baby's digestive and nervous systems mature. But always consult your healthcare professional if you have concerns about your baby's health.