colic Treatment in neath

Colic Support in Neath – Free NHS Advice for Parents

Our colic advice service in Neath provides free, professional support for parents and carers through the NHS Common Ailments Service. You can speak directly with a pharmacist about your baby’s symptoms, get reassurance, and receive practical guidance — no need to wait for your GP.

Book a free NHS Common Ailment appointment for colic advice and support today.
Book online or visit our pharmacy.

What Is Infant Colic?

Colic is a common condition that causes repeated periods of crying, fussing, or irritability in otherwise healthy babies. It usually begins within the first few weeks of life and resolves naturally by 3–4 months of age.

Typical signs of colic include:

  • Episodes of intense crying, often in the late afternoon or evening
  • Drawing knees up to the tummy or arching the back when crying
  • Clenched fists, red face, or excessive wind

What Causes Colic?

The exact cause is unknown. It may be due to gut sensitivity, feeding technique, or environmental factors such as overstimulation or family stress.
Colic is not caused by anything a parent has done — and it does not mean your baby is unwell.

What Doesn’t Work?

Research shows that some commonly used remedies are not effective and are therefore not recommended:

  • Simeticone drops (e.g. Infacol®) or lactase drops (e.g. Colief®)
  • Probiotics or herbal supplements
  • Changing infant milk formulas or maternal diet
  • Cranial osteopathy or spinal manipulation

The best approach is reassurance, expert guidance, and ongoing support.

Advice & Support for Parents

Our pharmacists can provide caring, evidence-based advice to help you manage colic at home. Helpful strategies may include:

  • Holding, rocking, or gently massaging your baby to provide comfort
  • Using soft background noise, such as white noise or a fan
  • Ensuring effective winding during and after feeds
  • Offering frequent, smaller feeds if suitable
  • Continuing breastfeeding wherever possible

Additional Support Resources

  • Cry-sis Helpline: 0845 122 8669
  • NHS Healthier Together: My baby is crying all the time
  • Talk to your health visitor and stay connected with other parents
  • Make time for rest and seek support from family or friends

When to Seek Further Help

We may refer you to a GP or pharmacist prescriber if:

  • Your baby is not feeding well or gaining weight
  • Symptoms continue beyond 4–5 months of age
  • You are unsure if it’s colic or another condition
  • Your baby seems unwell, drowsy, or develops a fever

Book an Appointment

Our pharmacist colic support service in Neath is free, confidential, and designed to reassure and empower parents. Get expert advice and practical help to manage your baby’s colic confidently.

Book Online or visit us in-store for same-day advice.

Providing NHS Services Wales

FAQs – Infant Colic & Parental Support

Is treatment for colic available on the NHS?

The NHS Common Ailments Service offers advice and support only — medicines for colic are not routinely supplied.

Is colic serious?

No — colic is common and self-limiting, though it can be distressing. Your pharmacist can help ensure nothing more serious is going on.

Can pharmacists diagnose colic?

Pharmacists can assess your baby’s symptoms and offer reassurance. If there are concerns, they will refer you for further assessment.

What age does colic affect?

Colic usually affects babies under 5 months and improves naturally by 3–4 months of age.

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Common Ailments Service |
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