Birth of a baby is a wonderful event; however, it may not be without problems. One of those challenges that most parents experience is infant colic: a frequent, long, very loud crying of an otherwise healthy baby. Although not life-threatening, it can be deeply upsetting for the baby and parents. In this post, we will review this and identify its potential causes, symptoms, methods of diagnosis, treatment options, and various practical tips to help you calm down a baby with colic.
What Is Infant Colic?
Infant colic describes unexplainable episodes of crying and fussing in an otherwise healthy baby. It commonly begins around the second or third week of life and is most severe at about six weeks, as it slowly resolves by three to four months of age. Colic is diagnosed when a baby cries for what most people agree is a ridiculous amount of time (according to the “Rule of Threes”):
- More than three hours a day
- More than three days a week
- For at least three weeks
Colic can be taxing on parents but it’s essential to know that it is temporary and not harmful in the long run.
How Common Is Colic?
It is a frequent condition and occurs in 10% to 40% of infants universally. It impacts babies regardless of whether they are male or female, first or second-born, or breastfed or formula fed. Even though colic is common, the exact cause is still a mystery and that’s what makes it such a head-scratcher in pediatric medicine.
Potential Causes of Infant Colic
There is no definitive explanation for colic, but a number of theories have been suggested over the years. A few of the most frequently mentioned elements are :
- Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Some experts say colic may be related to immature digestive systems, which causes gas, bloating or mild cramping. Other colicky babies may also gulp air during intense bouts of crying while making the issue worse.
- Sensitives to Foods or Food Allergies
Babies sometimes can’t handle the proteins in formula or cow’s milk (especially if the breastfeeding mom consumes dairy or caffeine) and can develop an intolerance or allergy. This can irritate their digestive systems and make them colicky.
- Overstimulation
Babies are born adapting to the environment. Some experts suggest that an overabundance of stimuli at once — lights, sounds, movements — can make babies fussy or colicky because they can’t process it all.
- Imbalance of Gut Bacteria
Some studies have found that colicky infants harbor a different population of gut bacteria from non-colicky ones, which may contribute to gastrointestinal distress and fussiness.
- Parental Stress
Not a cause, but certainly a correlation exists between parental stress and colicky babies. Caregivers under pressure — For example, those who are highly stressed or anxious — can impact a baby’s behavior or mood, which can make colic even worse.
Symptoms of Colic
Colic is difficult to diagnose, especially for new parents. But there are some classic signs that set colic apart from run-of-the-mill baby fussing:
- Severe crying that is high-pitched and may sound like screaming
- Typically, intense crying in the late afternoon or evening
- Fists that are clenched, an arching of the back, or the stiffening of the arms or legs, or bringing the legs up toward the belly.
- Redness or flushing of the face when crying
- Crying that comes and goes abruptly, with no apparent cause
- Inability to console the baby in standard ways (rocking, feeding, etc.)
When to See a Doctor
Although colic is not harmful, it’s something of a diagnosis of exclusion – that is, before being diagnosed as colicky, other causes of extreme fussing and crying (including but not limited to the following) need to be ruled out.
- Infections
- Acid Reflux or Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD)
- Food allergies
- Hernias
- Urinary tract infections
If your baby is:
- Has a fever
- Vomits often or with force
- Seems listless, or is not feeding well
- Has bloody stools
- Not gaining weight as one should
A healthcare provider can be your best source to understand if your baby’s crying is an indication of colic or something more serious.
Diagnosing Colic
Colic Diagnosis: There is no single test for colic. Doctors typically rely on:
- The pattern of crying
- How the baby eats and sleeps
- Physical exam to rule out other causes
If your baby is otherwise well and achieving developmental milestones, the diagnosis of colic is made on history and observation.
Tips and Tricks to Calm the Colicky Baby
All babies are different, so what works for one baby might not work for another. Here are a few commonly recommended methods to calm a colicky baby.
- Swaddling
Wrapping your baby tightly in a blanket can help your baby feel secure and warm, which may cut down on overstimulation.
- Use White Noise
White noise or a fan, vacuum cleaner, and white noise machines are often helpful in mimicking the sounds your baby heard in utero and creating a more favourable sleep environment.
- Motion and Rocking
Go for a walk, rock in a rocking chair, or put your baby in a swing. Babies in general are soothed by gentle, rhythmic movement.
- 4. Warm Baths and Tummy Time
A warm bath can also relax tense muscles, and supervised tummy time can help to release gas pressure in the abdomen.
- Burping Frequently
Frequent burping can help your baby during and after feeding to release trapped air.
- Try a Pacifier
Babies soothe by sucking naturally. The comfort of a pacifier may soothe them during an episode of crying.
- Modify Feeding Techniques
If bottle feeding, use anti-colic or vented bottles to minimize air intake. If you’re breastfeeding, experiment with altering your diet to eliminate possible allergens, such as — but certainly not limited to — dairy, caffeine or spicy food.
Topical At Home Remedies and Natural Cures
There are alternative therapies that some parents find helpful- -remember to consult with a pediatrician prior to attempting any of these treatments:
- Probiotics
There is some evidence that specific probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus reuteri, may decrease colic symptoms in some infants.
- Herbal Remedies
The gripe water she had tried contained herbs like chamomile or fennel, of which there is scant scientific evidence to support their safety or effectiveness. Always ask your doctor before taking any herbal remedy.
- Massage Therapy
Infant massage can help digestion and release tight muscles. Gently patting baby’s tummy in the form of a small circle can help ease gas and aid in bonding.
Coping as a Parent
Colic is not only hard on the baby; it can be hard on the entire household. Sleep deprivation, stress, and helplessness are normal feelings parents struggling with a colicky infant experience.
Here are several coping tips:
- Take Breaks
You can also lay your baby down in a safe place (like a crib), for a few minutes while you hydrate and take a deep breath (or step outside). It is important to take care of your mental health.
- Ask for Help
It’s okay to rely on your partner, family or friends for support. You don’t have to do it by yourself.
- Stay Calm
Babies read your feelings. By remaining calm (if possible), you can help de-escalate the situation.
- Join a Support Group
It can be affirming and a source of concrete suggestions to talk to other parents experiencing the same challenge.
- Remember It’s Temporary
And although it feels endless in the moment, colic is typically self-limiting, and symptoms usually resolve by 3 to 4 months.
Colic Myths and Misunderstandings
The myths about colic are many. Let’s debunk a few:
- “Colic means something is wrong with my baby.” – Not true. Colic happens with healthy babies and is not a sign of a long-term problem.
- “It’s because of bad parenting.” – False. Colic is not your fault. It occurs no matter the parenting.
- “If they’re crying, they must be hungry.” — There are many reasons why babies cry, such as the need for comforting or having gas.
- “Nothing can help colic.” — Although there is no cure, a number of approaches can help relieve symptoms and make it more manageable.
When Does Colic Go Away?
Many babies have colic in the first three to four months and then it goes away on its own, though some may take longer to overcome it. If crying last beyond five months or is increasing, consult with pediatrician for further assessment.
Final Thoughts
Infant colic is a distressing phase for both babies and parents. It may be overwhelming, but you can take comfort in knowing colic doesn’t last forever — and there are plenty of ways to manage and soothe your baby. Listen to your instincts, get help when you need it and know that this is just a phase.”
Before long, your baby will grow out of that colicky phase and you will move on together to brighter, less frenzied days.
FAQs About Infant Colic
Q: Can colic have more lasting effects on my baby?
A: No colic does not lead to long term health problems. Colicky babies are infants who are otherwise healthy and developing normally.
Q: Is colic more common in girls or boys?
A: Colic occurs in both boys and girls at the same rate.
Q: My baby cries all the time and I think it’s colic. Should I switch the formula?
A: Not until you discuss this with your child’s pediatrician. Some infants may do better on hypoallergenic formulas.
Q: How many hours a day do colic episodes last?
A: The duration ranges from minutes to a few hours and it usually peaks in the evening.
Q: Can I prevent colic?
A: There is no surefire way to avoid colic, but certain feeding techniques, diet modifications and soothing strategies might minimize symptoms.