Colic Causes, Symptoms & Coping

Many parents of newborns are all too familiar with colic, and those who have experienced it know it can be very stressful. Colic affects about 20 percent of babies and is characterized by frequent and intense crying in an otherwise healthy baby. Thankfully, colic is temporary, but it can leave parents exhausted and with shattered nerves.

Key Takeaways: Colic

• Colic is defined as frequent, prolonged, and intense crying or fussiness in a healthy infant. Many physicians use the "Rule of Threes" for diagnosis: crying for more than three hours a day, at least three days per week, for more than three weeks. It affects an estimated 20% to 25% of babies.
• Colic is a temporary condition. Colic typically begins when the baby is around three or four weeks old. The good news is that this excessive fussiness generally "magically disappears" on its own when the baby is approximately three months old.
• While the cause is not fully understood, parents should remain calm and patiently try different techniques. Effective strategies include holding and cuddling, walking with the baby to offer a change of scenery, swaddling (until the baby starts to roll over), singing and talking to provide comfort, and allowing the baby to suck on a pacifier.
• Call the pediatrician for persistent or associated severe symptoms: While most cases resolve naturally, you should contact the doctor if the baby remains inconsolable after three months of age. Immediate medical attention is also recommended if the excessive crying is accompanied by serious symptoms such as a fever, forceful vomiting, diarrhea or bloody stools.

What Is Colic?

Colic usually appears in babies between 2 and 4 weeks old and is marked by crying for more than three hours a day, three days a week for three weeks or more. It differs from normal baby fussiness in that colic is harder to relieve. Colic episodes are often predictable, usually occurring regularly in late afternoon or evening. In addition to crying, babies may:

• Clench their fists
• Arch their backs
• Turn red in the face
• Pull their knees up to their tummies.

For parents, colic feels overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that colic doesn’t mean illness or bad parenting. Most babies outgrow it by 3 or 4 months.

What Causes Colic?

The precise cause of colic is unknown, but experts believe several factors may contribute:

• Digestive immaturity: the digestive systems of newborns are still developing, which can lead to gas or discomfort.
• Overstimulation: babies adjusting to the world outside the womb may be overwhelmed by too much sensory input.
• Food sensitivities: some babies may have a reaction to proteins in formula or breast milk.
• Developmental changes: rapid growth and neurological development can cause babies to be more irritable.

If your baby is eating well, gaining weight and otherwise healthy, colic is likely the reason for the baby’s distress. Colic is rarely due to something parents have done wrong.

How Is Colic Diagnosed?

No specific test exists to confirm colic. Doctors diagnose it based on symptoms and by ruling out other conditions like reflux, allergies or infections. Keeping a “crying and feeding” diary and sharing it with your doctor can show patterns and rule out concerns.

Practical Tips For Managing Colic

While there’s no magic cure, these strategies can help soothe your baby:

1. Feeding adjustments

• Burp your baby frequently during and after feeding.
• Offer smaller, more frequent meals.
• If breastfeeding, consider eliminating common irritants like caffeine or dairy (ask for your doctor’s guidance).

• Ask your doctor if it's ok to try gas relief drops, probiotics, or other remedies to see if they help.

2. Comforting techniques

• Swaddle your baby snugly.
• Use gentle rocking or rhythmic motion.
• Try white noise or soft music.
• Offer a pacifier for sucking comfort.

3. Warm baths and tummy massage

A warm bath followed by gentle tummy massage can relax your baby and relieve gas.

4. Check for formula sensitivities

If your baby is formula-fed, ask your doctor if a hypoallergenic formula might help.

When To Call The Doctor

Seek medical advice if your baby:

• Has a fever
• Vomits persistently
• Fails to gain weight
• Appears lethargic or unusually irritable.

These symptoms could indicate something more serious than colic.

Coping Tips For Colic

Colic doesn’t just affect babies—it takes a toll on parents too. Sleepless nights and constant crying can lead to stress and feelings of helplessness. Here’s how to cope:

• Take breaks: if you feel overwhelmed, place your baby safely in the crib and step away for a few minutes.
• Ask for help: share responsibilities with your partner or family members.
• Connect with others: support groups and online communities can provide encouragement.

Colic can be challenging, but remember, it’s a temporary phase that will soon pass. With patience, support, and knowledge of some soothing techniques, you can navigate this period and help your baby feel better. If you’re unsure of how to move forward, reach out to your doctor, who is your best resource for guidance and reassurance.