Introduction
Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus, causing discomfort and even pain for the baby. Colic, on the other hand, refers to unexplained and excessive crying or fussiness in babies from pain in the stomach or abdomen. Both acid reflux and colic can cause distress for both baby and parent.
Fortunately, Homeopathy offers a gentle and natural method of addressing these issues, without any harmful side effects. This blog will delve into ways in which homeopathy can help to manage acid reflux and colic in babies and toddlers.
Homoeopathic remedies have been used to alleviate symptoms associated with reflux and colic for many years.
Babies sometimes experience painful gas, upset bowels, and cramps resulting from an immature digestive system and intestinal fermentation..
When selecting homeopathic remedies to address reflux and colic, sometimes it is important to consider the baby’s and the Mum’s emotional state, as certain emotions may exacerbate the situation. If the situation isn’t resolved easily, try calling for a free 15 minute video call before making an appointment for a consultation.
Recommended Suggestions
There are two groups of babies who experience colic
A) those who draw their knees up –Colocynthis, Chamomilla (irritable and restless), and Mag Phos may be effective remedies
B) those who arch backwards – Dioscorea may be beneficial
- Natrum Phos is for Acid Reflux in Babies with Vomiting and Colic. Nat phos neutralises the stomach acid and promotes healthy digestion. It can be uses as a Schuessler Cell salt. It is indicated for babies that vomit out curdled milk or cheesy masses. A characteristic yellow, creamy coating on the back of the tongue usually indicates Nat phos.
- Aethusa cynapium for reflux in babies who vomit after milk. Hiccoughing is common and the baby may become drowsy after vomiting. The vomit may be like curdled milk or cheesy matter.
- Chamomilla has has wind colic and regurgitation of food. Colic in babies causes pain in the stomach due to obstruction of wind in the intestines. The baby cries, screams, groans and asks to be carried around.
- Nux vomica can be helpful for severe bloating and pressure.
- Belladonna may be useful for hot and restless babies with distended abdomens
- Ignatia if the mother is experiencing grief or disappointment
- Calc Carb may be beneficial for babies who have sour smelling vomit and often indicated during teething
- Borax may be given to infants who scream excessively during nursing and worse for downward motion
- Silica may be administered for babies who have a large sweaty head and vomit after feeds.
- Robina – helpful for treating acidity in babies that is worse at night. Abdominal distension and burping can bring temperate relief but the baby can cry with colic after eating.
- Carbo veg – Acid reflux in babies with excessive burping with gagging and vomiting. Discomfort after eating even the smallest amount. The release of gas brigs comfort to the baby
- Sanicula aqua – reflux in babies with vomiting of food and milk after eating. The food comes out with a gush immediately after nursing or eating. The baby usually falls asleep after this.
What Causes Reflux in Infants?
Reflux is more common in infants due to various reasons such as:
- Underdeveloped Lower Esophageal Sphincter: The LES, a muscular ring between the esophagus and stomach, may not be fully developed in babies. This can result in stomach contents frequently flowing back up into the oesophagus.
- Horizontal Position During/After Feeding: When infants are fed or placed horizontally after feeding, their muscles relax, making it easier for the stomach contents to reflux into the oesophagus.
- Short oesophagus: Infants have a short oesophagus due to their small size, which can lead to reflux.
- Congenital Hiatal Hernia: If a baby is born with a hiatal hernia, gastric acid can flow back up from the stomach into the oesophagus as the upper portion of the stomach bulges into the chest through the hiatus opening in the diaphragm.
- Overfeeding: Giving the baby too much food in one go can also put pressure on the LES, causing reflux.
- Certain Foods: Intake of foods high in acidity, such as citrus fruits, tomato, and fatty foods, can also contribute to acid reflux.
Conclusion
Homeopathic remedies can provide a safe and gentle alternative to traditional medications. Remedies such as Nat phos, Aethusa, Chamomilla and Colocynthis etc have been shown to effectively manage symptoms by reducing intestinal inflammation, calming the nervous system, and improving the digestion process. I hope you can learn how to choose the correct remedy for your baby or toddler, as the proper selection and dosing is crucial for optimal results. If not , a homeopathic consultation is ideal. Overall, the use of homeopathic remedies can offer relief for both baby and parent, allowing for a more comfortable and peaceful experience.
