colic Treatment in neath

BOOK A FREE NHS COMMON AILMENT APPOINTMENT FOR COLIC SUPPORT IN NEATH

If your baby is unsettled, crying frequently, or showing signs of colic, you can get expert advice without needing to see your GP. At The Health Dispensary and Neath Pharmacy, our pharmacists offer free NHS appointments to support parents and carers of babies with colic. While we cannot provide treatment under the NHS scheme, we can assess the symptoms and offer advice to help you feel more confident.

What Is Infant Colic?

Infantile colic is a common condition that causes prolonged periods of crying, fussing, or irritability in an otherwise healthy and thriving baby. It often begins within the first few weeks of life and usually improves by 3–4 months of age, resolving completely by 5–6 months.

Signs of colic may include:

• Episodes of intense crying, often in the late afternoon or evening
• Drawing knees up to the abdomen or arching the back when crying
• Clenched fists, red face, or frequent wind (flatus)

What Causes Colic?

The exact cause of colic is unknown, but it may relate to a combination of gut sensitivity, feeding issues, or environmental factors. Environmental factors include overstimulation, family stress, or parent-infant interaction patterns.

What Doesn’t Work?

There is not enough good evidence to recommend the following treatments, so they are not advised:
• Simeticone (e.g. Infacol®) or lactase drops (e.g. Colief®)
• Probiotics or herbal supplements
• Maternal diet changes while breastfeeding
• Changing infant milk formula
• Cranial osteopathy or spinal manipulation

The best approach is often reassurance you are doing the right thing, expert advice, and onward referral if needed.

Advice and Support for Parents

Our pharmacists can offer guidance and reassurance to help you manage your baby’s colic. While colic usually improves on its own, we understand it can be distressing. We’re here to support your confidence in recognising and caring for this condition.

Helpful strategies may include:
• Holding, rocking, or warm bathing to soothe the infant
• Gentle background noise like a vacuum or hairdryer
• Optimal winding technique during and after feeds
• Continuing breastfeeding wherever possible

Additional Support Resources

• Cry-sis support group:  National 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 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 gaining weight or appears unwell
• Symptoms continue beyond 4 months of age
• You’re unsure if it’s colic or another condition
• You feel unable to cope despite advice and reassurance

How to Book

You can book your NHS colic advice appointment online or visit either of our pharmacy branches in Neath.

FAQs about Colic

Q: Is treatment for colic available on the NHS?
A: The NHS Common Ailments Service offers advice only. Treatments may be available privately.

Q: Is colic serious?
A: Colic is not dangerous and usually improves with time, but it can be distressing for parents.

Q: Can pharmacists diagnose colic?
A: Pharmacists can assess symptoms and offer reassurance. In unclear cases, you may be referred for further advice.

Q: What age does colic affect?
A: Colic usually affects babies under 5 months old and typically improves by 3–4 months.