Patient's question:
At 7 weeks, my baby has been experiencing sudden crying episodes while falling asleep for the past 4 nights. I've noticed that it seems to be colic, as feeding with breast milk helps calm them down temporarily. Sometimes they fall asleep after feeding, but other times they vomit. This happens 2-3 times per night. Should I continue feeding them every 2-3 hours or try to soothe them first? If soothing doesn't work and they continue to cry, what negative effects could this have on the baby? Thank you!Doctor's answer:
There are many reasons why a baby might cry at night, such as nightmares, being startled, or feeling uncomfortable. For example, it could be due to gas or insufficient breast milk, which may cause the baby to swallow too much air while nursing, leading to bloated and painful stomach. Alternatively, if the mom has eaten spicy or irritating foods, the baby may not be able to recover, and the pain will cause the baby to cry. Wet diapers can also cause discomfort, leading to crying. Additionally, extreme indoor temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can make the baby feel uneasy. Some babies lack a sense of security and have difficulty sleeping, expecting their mother's arms to provide a comforting sense of safety. If all these situations are ruled out and the baby continues to cry excessively, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.