Causes of Crying in Infants:
Understanding the Reasons behind a Common Physiological Event.
Introduction:
Crying is a normal physiological event in the lives of
all infants. It serves as a means of communication to convey discomfort or
distress. When a newborn infant takes its first breath, crying helps to expand
the lungs and establish normal breathing. While excessive crying may not have a
firm definition, it is distressing for parents and may indicate an underlying
issue. This article aims to highlight common causes of crying in infants.
Common reasons for crying:
1-Hunger:
Infants cry to communicate their need for nourishment.
Breastfeeding or formula milk should be given promptly to soothe the infant.
2-Wetting:
Urination and defecation cause discomfort and may
result in crying until the baby is cleaned and made dry.
3-Company:
Infants may cry when they feel lonely or separated
from their caregivers. The presence of a familiar person or object can help
calm the infant.
4-Fatigue:
Infants may cry when they are tired, unable to sleep,
or uncomfortable in their surroundings or due to unhealthy climate.
5-Temperature changes:
Infants may cry if they are too hot or too cold. They
are most comfortable in a well-ventilated environment.
6-Tight clothing:
Infants may cry if they are dressed in tight or
uncomfortable clothing, especially during warm weather. The tight elastic of
the garment can also cause soreness in the hip region.
7-Dark room:
Infants may cry when they wake up from sleep and need
dim lighting. Complete darkness may disturb their sleep, while strong light may
irritate them.
8-Mosquito bites:
Mosquito bites can cause discomfort and irritation,
leading to crying.
9-Nasal blockage:
Infants may cry when they have a cold or flu, as nasal
blockage can make breathing difficult.
10-Phlegm in throat:
Difficulty breathing due to phlegm in the throat can
cause crying, accompanied by a typical sound with each breath.
11-Generalized aching:
Infants may experience generalized body aches and
restlessness during the prodromal stages of some infectious diseases or flu,
leading to continuous crying.
12-Habitual cry:
Some infants may cry without any apparent cause,
causing distress for parents. Medical attention may be needed in such cases.
13-Nappy rash:
Keeping a wet or tight nappy for an extended period
can cause a rash and soreness, making the infant sleepless and cry. Allergic
reactions to the elastic material of the nappy or other skin lesions, such as
eczema or candidiasis, can also cause similar problems.
14-Earache:
Ear infection is common in damp climates and may
result in rupture of the eardrum and discharge of pus. Infants with an earache
may become restless and cry, particularly at night when lying down. They may
also frequently rub the affected ear.
15-Colic:
Continuous crying is often diagnosed as colic, but the
exact cause is unknown. Colic may be associated with abdominal distension and
rumbling. Infants may feel better when lying on their abdomen, but medical
attention may be required if the crying is persistent.
16-Infections:
Infections anywhere in the body can cause pain and
irritation, leading to crying. Symptoms typically include fever, redness, and
swelling.
17-Food allergies:
Allergic reactions to certain food articles can cause
redness, breathlessness, gastric symptoms, and continuous crying.
18-Constipation:
Infants may cry due to constipation and hard stools.
Prompt medical attention is needed in such cases.
Conclusion:
Crying is a natural means of communication for
infants, and it can indicate a range of underlying issues. Understanding the
common causes of crying can help parents and caregivers address the needs of
the infant promptly. From hunger and wetting to company and temperature
changes, there are several reasons why infants cry. It is crucial to observe
the accompanying symptoms and seek medical attention if the crying is
persistent or accompanied by other signs of discomfort or illness. By
identifying and addressing the root cause of crying, parents can ensure the
well-being and comfort of their infants.
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