Gas

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How can someone so cute emit such a stinker?!

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Gas is just air in the stomach or intestines.  In most cases, infant gas is nothing to worry about. Many babies are not bothered by it but some become restless and cannot sleep while others cry for hours. 

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Cause:

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• Excessive crying as the baby takes in air when they cry. It can be hard for someone to tell if gas is causing their crying or if crying is causing their gas. Either way, it is important to promptly tend to a crying baby’s needs and soothe them in the best way possible.

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• Babies may get gas when they are constipated. Less commonly, gas may signal a gastrointestinal condition, such as reflux. Talk to a pediatrician, especially if the gas happens a lot or is severe.

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• Babies’ bodies are learning how to digest food, so they tend to get more gas than adults.

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Symptoms

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• crying while passing gas or soon after, especially if the crying happens when a baby is unlikely to be hungry or tired

• arching the back

• lifting the legs

• a swollen-looking stomach

• passing gas or belching

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Treatment and Tips:

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• Move their legs in a circle by laying baby flat on their back and lift their legs with their knees bent.  Move the legs in a bicycling motion to help relieve trapped gas

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• Position the baby so that their head is above their stomach.  Try holding them in an upright position for burping.Burp baby by rubbing or gently patting the back.

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• If baby likes riding in the car, go for a ride.  The gentle rocking may ease pain and calm the baby.

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• Gently rubbing baby's tummy may help. Try pressing down in gentle clockwise/anti-clockwise motions. 

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• Cradle the baby face down instead of face up.  Support the baby's head, elevating it slightly ensuring nothing covers the face or nose.

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• Giving the baby tummy time may help with the gas.  Tummy time involves placing them on their tummy and letting them move around. This can free trapped gas while also helping to boost healthy muscle development.

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• Giving gas drops may help but be sure to follow the dosage on the bottle

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If baby's gas is very bad and the home remedies are not working, talk to your Paediatrician.

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Next...Sleep