Why Is My Baby So Fussy — Continued

Diaper rash

It’s normal for babies to get diaper rash, but some babies have more of an issue. Try remedies like changing the diaper more often, testing different brands of disposables, using unscented wipes or plain water, rinsing cloth diapers with some vinegar, or using a cream. If your baby has a yeast problem on her bottom, you’ll need an anti-fungal cream, perhaps the same cream you may be using on your nipples.

Thrush

A yeast infection can show up as white spots inside your baby’s mouth or sometimes as a pearly look to the lips or saliva. Thrush is also a possible cause of fussiness even if it’s not visible. Talk to your baby’s doctor about whether she needs an oral anti-fungal.

Food sensitivities

Breastfed babies can react to the food a mother eats. The reaction, however, will usually trigger other symptoms along with fussiness, such as congestion, hives, or vomiting. A reaction to a food can occur within minutes — but it also may not arrive for as long as a day.

You can try staying away from eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, cow’s milk, and food containing cow’s milk protein. You might eliminate any food to which other members of the family are allergic.

Look for any relationship to changes in your diet. If it’s corn season and you’re eating three cobs a day and your baby is suddenly crying more, you might suspect corn.

Among colicky babies on formula, some evidence suggests that switching from a standard cow’s milk formula helps. Various studies have tested giving colicky babies probiotics, with mixed results. The most promising probiotic is Lactobacillus reuteri.

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