Basically, colic is colic. However, there are different things that might cause colic in babies and the severity of colic in one child may be different than the severity in another child. So, there arent really different types of colic since it still has not been determined what the actual cause of colic is. Although, it does seem that the following elements play a role in colic in different babies, allowing for various causes of colic.

Allergy Babies who are formula fed are more likely to have colic than breastfed babies. This is because there is a greater risk of an allergic reaction. The most common allergic reaction among formula fed babies is a reaction to cows milk protein. This reaction causes the baby to have spasms in the digestive track which leads to pain and inconsolable crying. Babies with this type of colic typically have severe reactions and cry longer and harder than babies with other causes of their colic.

Soy based formulas may cause colic as well for the same reason as cows milk formula. About half of the babies allergic to cows milk formula will also be allergic to soy based formulas so switching formulas may not always be the answer for relieving colic symptoms.

Immature Digestive System An immature digestive system is often to blame for colic, or at least that is what doctors believe. Babies are born with many developed organs, but they still develop outside the womb and the digestive track is one of these. For about 20-25% of all babies the digestive track will still be too immature to properly digestive formula and will cramp, spasm, and cause lots of pain for your little one. Usually this problem is resolved by three months of age when your babys digestive system is more mature. Some babies with this type of colic are extremely cranky for hours and days on end while others cry for shorter periods of time. How your baby reacts depends on many factors, most of which are not yet understood.

Sleep State Transition Another cause for colic is that your baby cannot transition from being asleep to being awake very well. The result is colic. Some babies will respond to this in a very strong way and others not as much. As your baby grows his nervous system will be able to transition from one state to another better and the colic will go away.

There may still be other causes of colic. The truth is that doctors arent 100% sure as to what causes colic and how it results in the crying episodes. Regardless, one thing is for sure. Babies outgrow colic, eventually.

Posted in Baby and Toddler

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