Hunger is the most prominent cause of a fussy baby or baby crying. As newborns grow quickly and have tiny tummies, their caregivers or parents should understand the need to wake up several times during the night to feed them.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, infants need 14 to 17 hours of sleep daily. As they grow, their sleep habits alter, requiring less sleep and staying asleep for more extended periods.
Infants may also feel uneasy owing to the temperature of the room, a dirty diaper, or the loss of their pacifier, a nipple-like device designed for babies to suck.
Apart from hunger, here are some other reasons your baby might be fussy at night.
Overstimulation
Infants can become easily overstimulated, especially if exposed to noise, light, or activity. This can lead to crying, especially when the baby is trying to settle down for the night. An overstimulated baby may feel tired or cranky at night.
Physical Discomfort
When babies are uncomfortable, it can be hard for them to settle down and sleep. Common causes of physical discomfort include a wet or dirty diaper, too-tight clothing, a draft, or a room that is too cold or hot.
Separation Anxiety
As per Mayo Clinic, newborns frequently cry because they miss their parents. Babies can experience separation anxiety, especially when they have been apart from their parents during the day. This can cause a baby to become upset when the parents leave the room at night. As per Children's Hospital Philadelphia, separation anxiety often peaks between 10 and 18 months. It usually ends when a child reaches the age of three.
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Growth Spurts
Growth spurt is a short period when a baby experiences a sudden growth in height and weight.
During the night, babies can experience growth spurts, which can cause them to wake up hungry or uncomfortable.
Teething
Teething can cause a baby to be in pain and uncomfortable, which can lead to crying.
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Illness
If a baby is sick, it can cause them to wake up more often than usual and to be fussy. Common illnesses that can cause a baby to cry at night include ear infections, colds, and stomach viruses.
How To Calm A Fussy Baby
Check your baby constantly if they require a diaper change or food.
- Rock your baby in your arms or a rocking chair to soothe them.
- Give your baby a pacifier or unique toy to help them feel more at ease.
- Give your baby a warm bath.
- If your baby is still crying, try putting them down in their crib and leave the room for a few minutes.
- If you’re breastfeeding, try giving your baby a few extra feedings during the night.
- If you are using a bottle to feed your baby, warm up the bottle slightly to make it more comforting.
- You can sing or play a soft song to soothe your baby.
If the baby cry problem persists, then it is better to consult a pediatrician, who can diagnose the exact cause.
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