6 Kabag Remedies for Your Baby

Your baby’s incessant crying can be due to a lot of things. But the most common culprit is sakit sa tiyan, which may be caused by various reasons and exhibit varying characteristics. Stomach ache, for instance, can be a bad case of cramps or a burning sensation otherwise known as paghapdi ng sikmura. It can also be a case of colic, which is better known as kabag in the vernacular.  For sure, as a parent, you’ll immediately look for kabag remedies for your remedy.

What is Kabag?

Kabag is a natural condition in which air gets into infants’ stomachs aged 3 weeks and above and is trapped there. This condition, which happens to about 5–19% of infants worldwide, causes tummy aches and discomfort that are frequently accompanied by:

• Intense and constant crying
• Crying at specific times of the day 
• Clenching of the fist
• Tense and firm tummy
• Cold hands and feet

In English, “kabag” is commonly referred to as “indigestion” or “upset stomach.” It’s a condition where a person experiences discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen due to difficulties in the digestion process. Indigestion can be caused by various factors such as overeating, consuming spicy or fatty foods, stress, or underlying digestive disorders.

Once your baby exhibits the above symptoms, you can try these easy remedies:

Respond

The first thing you must do is respond to your baby’s constant crying —lovingly. Remember, crying is the only way your infant can communicate with you, so your immediate response is both powerful and reassuring. Do that as often as you can, and you are likely to reduce your baby’s crying in the long term. 

Rest your baby in the magic hold

Next, put your baby in the so-called magic hold. To do this:

1. Place your baby’s entire upper body along the length of your forearm such that their stomach firmly rests right around your wrist.
2. Use the crook of your arm to hold the baby’s head in place while you hold their back with your other hand.
3. Gently rock your bundle of joy back and forth at about a 15-degree angle to give them maximum comfort and reassurance.  

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Massage that tummy

A good, old massage is a common remedy for kabag, especially when your baby’s tummy is tensed and cramping up. It won’t necessarily flush out all the air built up, but it can at least alleviate some of the pain. That’s because a gentle rub on the tummy can relax those cramping muscles. You can also use baby oil or ointment to add an even more soothing effect. Just remember not to press too hard, as doing so can make things painful for your baby.

Carry your baby

There is a reason babies want you to carry them as often as possible: being carried is one of their biggest needs. J. Kevin Nugent, a child psychologist and director of the Brazelton Institute at Children’s Hospital in Boston, explains how toddlers need to recognize that “the world is somehow reliable and trustworthy,” and carrying them is one of the best ways to prove that. 

In other words, carrying your baby reassures them that everything is all right, which is particularly critical when they feel uncomfortable. So, hold your child for as long as necessary — or until they have calmed down or have fallen asleep. 

Help your baby burp

Another common kabag remedies is to burp your baby, as burping can let them pass gas. This, in turn, helps alleviate any pain they are experiencing. That said, make sure you are burping your baby the right way by following these simple pointers:

• Hold your baby firmly against one side of your chest while sitting or standing upright. 
• Support your baby’s back with your other arm while ensuring that their chin is resting comfortably on your shoulder. 
• Pat your baby’s back gently. Continue patting until they burp. Make sure you tap at the left side of your baby’s back since that’s where their stomach is located. 
• Alternatively, you might need to give firmer taps in case your baby still hasn’t burped after more than three minutes. Sometimes, though, all it takes is a loving back rub.

Additionally, make it a habit to burp your toddler after every feeding so their stomach won’t fill with air bubbles anymore. Make it a point, too, to keep a bib handy and a burp cloth between your baby’s mouth and your shoulder. Doing so will prove helpful in case your baby spits something out or makes a mess. 

Give your baby kabag meds

In some cases, giving your baby something for their kabag is an option you must consider. This something can be a doctor-prescribed oral solution or even made-for-babies probiotics. The former combines air bubbles and makes it easier for your baby to pass gas. The latter, on the other hand, has been shown to ease colic symptoms. Having said that, make sure you consult with your pediatrician first before giving your baby either option.

Try the Baby Bicycle Exercise

It doesn’t mean that you’ll let your baby ride the bicycle. While lying on his back, hold the baby’s feet up and slowly lift it above his tummy. Move your baby’s legs as if he is pedalling a bike.

What if Kabag Remedies for Baby Doesn’t Work?

If none of the above kabag remedies work or if your baby is regularly bothered by flatulence, get in touch with your pedia right away to schedule a consultation. For all you know, there might be a bigger problem causing your baby’s discomfort that only your family doctor can address best.

Disclaimer: Pink Heart String is not a medical website but I do my best to give you th most accurate information. However, you should not consider this as a replacement of a doctor’s advice. Always consult the doctor to ensure the health and safety of your family.