Our infants convey lots of messages to us even though they can’t speak. They smile and giggle when happy, they can be fidgety when uncomfortable and hungry, and yes, they cry, and cry. Some babies cry a lot! You are not the first mom to ask what to do when your baby won’t stop crying, so let’s look at some tips.
Why Babies Cry
Some babies can cry 2 – 3 hours out of a 24 hr period. Is he or she crying because of hunger, a wet diaper, feeling tired or bored, overstimulated from noise and light, or do they have gas? Some infants have acid reflux or colic. Or maybe your little one is sick and in pain. They can also become frightened by a stranger, be too hot or too cold, or teething.
Sometimes a mom can tell right away what’s wrong if the diaper is wet, and they stop crying once their tiny behind is dry once again. If they happen to be hungry, that’s a quick fix too. It’s when they continue to cry after you have tried all the normal remedies that the crying can become both worrisome and stressful.
The best piece of advice is not to panic because you are not alone. Don’t compare your baby to another as no two are alike.
Tried And True Remedies To Soothe A Crying Baby (And Soothe Yourself)
- Swaddling an infant in a soft blanket provides a safe environment.
- Rocking seems to help some infants. Use a swing or a carrier or hold the baby yourself. This helps slow down their heart rate and relaxes muscles.
- Try Music. Singing along can provide a distraction along with being comforted by hearing your voice.
- Moving to a dark room seems to settle a crying baby.
- Use some white noise like a soft fan or the vacuum cleaner.
- Moving around is another good tactic. This is especially helpful if you are becoming stressed. Walk outside, onto the patio, or into another room. The change of scenery can catch your crying infant’s attention and they will calm down.
- Hold your infant on its side or stomach as you rock them. (but never put them in their crib on their stomach)
When To Be Concerned And Call Kids First Pediatrics of Raeford and Fayetteville
It is also important to know when to call your pediatrician. If your little one won’t eat or drink, if their temperature is more than 100.4, if they are vomiting, having bloody stool, not peeing, or has been crying for more than 2 hours without being consoled, you should contact your physician.
Most babies will respond to one or more of the tips above, so don’t get discouraged, and above all, stay calm or ask for help.
Contact Kids First Pediatrics of Raeford and Fayetteville with questions about an inconsolable baby.
As always, if you have any further questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please call (910) 848-5437 or request an appointment online today!
