Hypoglycemia and Colic are two common problems that afflict newborn babies. Therefore, it becomes necessary for parents to know about the symptoms, causes and treatment of hypoglycemia and colic.

Hypoglycemia

It is a condition where the blood sugar levels of a baby fall below normal level. A certain amount of glucose is essential to maintain the functioning of our brain and body. When a baby is in the mother’s womb this level is maintained by the transport of glucose through the umbilical cord. On being born, this umbilical cord is removed and the blood sugar level falls for a few days.

The causes can be varied, for instance, premature birth or low birth weight, mother received large doses of intravenous dextrose during labor or she is diabetic.

A hypoglycemicbaby may experience breathing difficulties, you may find him\her unusually jittery or the baby may lie limp and apathetic.

Hypoglycemic babies need ample nourishment; therefore, they may be administered glucose drips intravenously. Babies may be given additional feeding so that they get the required glucose from breast-feeding.

Colic

Colic can be described as a specific crying pattern due to unexplained pain, possibly stomachache, in an otherwise healthy young baby.

The symptoms include non-stop crying for hours, because of which the baby’s face may turn red. The baby may arch her back, clench her fist or pull her legs to her stomach. The baby may act fussy but will still eat well and continue to gain weight.

Colic may be a result of several factors acting together. For instance, the baby might have swallowed air while eating, sucking or crying, overfeeding or feeding to quickly, esophageal reflux, some developmental adjustment or parental stress may be stressing the baby as well.

There is no specific treatment for curing colic, but you can take some steps to help soothe your baby.

• Bathe the baby with lukewarm water or place a warm water bottle on her tummy.
• Walk your baby in a stroller or take her for a ride in the car.
• Gently massage the baby’s tummy and feet.
• Wrap your baby in a cotton covering and rock her in your arms to make her feel safe.
• You can give her some gripe water or colic drops.
• Make changes in your diet if you breast-feed or try a different formula if you bottle-feed.