Colic In Newborns: What's Normal And What's Not?

Colic is a common condition in newborns, characterised by frequent and intense crying or fussiness in an otherwise healthy infant. It can be extremely distressing for parents as the baby's crying appears to occur for no apparent reason and cannot be consoled. Colic typically starts within the first few weeks after birth and peaks between 4 and 6 weeks of age. It usually ends by the time the baby is 3 to 4 months old, and in most cases, it is gone by 6 months. While the exact cause of colic is unknown, several factors are believed to contribute, including an immature digestive system, food allergies or intolerances, and overstimulation.

Colic symptoms and diagnosis

Colic is when a healthy baby cries for a long time for no obvious reason. It is most common during the first 6 weeks of life and usually goes away by the time a baby is 3 to 4 months old. Colic is defined as when a baby cries for more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, for more than 3 weeks.

Symptoms

Colic often begins suddenly, with loud and mostly non-stop crying. This constant, extreme crying can be stressful and difficult for parents. Colicky crying is louder, more high-pitched, and more urgent sounding than regular crying.

Babies with colic are often fussy, gassy, and don't sleep well. They may also:

• Burp often or pass a lot of gas
• Have a bright red (flushed) face
• Have a tight belly
• Curl up their legs toward their belly when crying
• Clench their fists when crying
• Arch their back
• Have a tense abdomen

Diagnosis

If you suspect your baby has colic, you should schedule an appointment with your child's healthcare provider for a thorough exam. The provider will ask about your child's symptoms and health history and give your child a physical exam. You may be asked questions such as:

• How long and how often does your baby cry?
• Have you found anything that seems to trigger the crying?
• What comfort methods help to calm your baby, if any?

Blood tests and X-rays or other imaging tests may also be done to rule out other health problems.

Colic causes

Colic is the term used to describe frequent, prolonged and intense crying or fussiness in a healthy infant. While the exact cause of colic is unknown, there are several factors that may contribute to this condition.

Digestive Issues

One possible cause of colic is an underdeveloped digestive system, which can lead to gas, reflux, or an imbalance of healthy bacteria in the digestive tract. Some babies may also have food allergies or intolerances, such as an intolerance to cow's milk protein, which can cause belly pain and loose stools. Overfeeding, underfeeding, or infrequent burping can also play a role.

Sensory Overload

Colic may also be the result of a baby's sensitivity to their new environment, including loud noises, bright lights, or too much stimulation. This can be overwhelming for newborns, and crying may be their way of expressing these intense feelings.

Other Factors

Other potential causes of colic include an early form of childhood migraine, family stress or anxiety, and exposure to maternal smoking during pregnancy or after delivery.

It is important to note that colic is not a result of anything the parents are doing wrong, and it is not harmful to the baby's health. While it can be a frustrating and stressful time for parents, colic usually resolves on its own by the time the baby is 3 to 4 months old, and it rarely lasts beyond 6 months of age.

Colic treatment

Colic is a common condition that affects about 20% of babies worldwide, and it can be a stressful and challenging time for parents. While there is no cure for colic, there are several things you can try to help soothe your baby and reduce their crying. Here are some tips and treatments to help manage your baby's colic:

Basic Treatments

• Change your baby's diaper frequently.
• Offer your baby the chance to nurse or have a bottle, but don't force-feed them if they're not interested.
• Hold and rock your baby or use a swing or bouncer if they're old enough.
• Ensure your baby is not too hot or cold.
• If you're breastfeeding, consider cutting down on milk, spicy foods, citrus, and caffeine in your diet.
• Try a different brand of formula if you're bottle-feeding.
• Feed your baby smaller meals more frequently, but avoid feeding them too quickly or too much.
• Warm the formula to body temperature.
• Feed your baby in an upright position.
• Help them swallow less air by using a special bottle designed to reduce gas or a nipple with a smaller hole. Remember to burp them during and after feedings.

Use Sound and Motion

• Try walking or rocking your baby. The motion and warmth may help calm them.
• Use a baby carrier and walk around with your baby against your chest.
• Put your baby in a swing or stroller.
• Use sound to calm your baby, such as singing or making a shushing sound directly into their ear.
• Use white noise, such as a fan, a white-noise machine, or a heartbeat soundtrack.
• Classical music can also be soothing.
• Go for a ride in the car. The motion of the car often soothes babies.

Other Treatments

• Reposition how you hold your baby. Try the "football hold" by holding them facing down with your hand under their belly and their head on your forearm.
• Swaddle your baby in a blanket.
• Lay your baby on their back in a dark, quiet room.
• Place a warm water bottle on your baby's belly.
• Give them a pacifier.
• Give your baby a warm bath.
• Introduce a pacifier.

Colic Drops and Remedies

• Give your baby simethicone gas drops or a natural remedy such as Colic Calm® to help relieve gas.
• If you're breastfeeding, keep a food journal and track all the foods and drinks you consume. You may need to eliminate certain foods such as milk products, caffeine, chocolate, nuts, onions, and cabbage.
• If your baby is bottle-fed and other methods don't work, your healthcare provider may recommend trying a non-milk-based formula for a week.

Parent Self-Care

• Ask your partner, a family member, or a babysitter to take a turn with your baby so you can take a break.
• Take care of yourself and don't get burned out. It's important to reduce your stress level, as this may also help your baby.
• Talk to your pediatrician about probiotic supplements or feeding changes to help with colic.
• Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider if you feel overwhelmed or frustrated.
• Never shake or harm your baby. If you feel like you might hurt them, call your doctor right away and ask for help.

Coping with a colicky baby

Colic is a common condition that affects up to 20% of babies worldwide. It is characterised by frequent, prolonged, and intense crying or fussiness in a healthy infant, often for no apparent reason. While colic in babies is harmless and usually passes by the time a baby is 3 to 4 months old, it can be incredibly stressful and frustrating for parents. Here are some tips for coping with a colicky baby:

Understanding Colic

Firstly, understand that colic is a common issue and is not caused by anything you have done. It is important to know that colic is not harmful to your baby's health, and they will eventually outgrow it.

Caring for Yourself

Caring for a colicky baby can be exhausting and overwhelming. It is crucial to take care of yourself and reduce your stress levels. Ask for help from family or friends, or consider using a babysitter or a respite nursery. Taking breaks and getting support will help you manage the extra stress and fatigue that come with having a colicky baby.

Soothing Techniques

There are various soothing techniques you can try to comfort your baby:

• Skin-to-skin contact and swaddling
• Rocking your baby in your arms or using an infant swing
• Rhythmic noise, vibration, and motion
• Warm baths
• Reduced stimulation, such as using quiet voices and turning off electronics
• Burping your baby frequently to relieve trapped gas
• Introducing a pacifier
• Giving your baby simethicone gas drops to relieve gas

Feeding Considerations

If you are breastfeeding:

• Keep a food journal to track what you eat and drink, as it can affect your baby.
• Avoid caffeine, chocolate, dairy products, and nuts, as they can be irritating or cause allergies.
• Consult your doctor about any medications you are taking.

If you are bottle-feeding:

• Try different brands of formula, as your baby may be sensitive to certain proteins.
• Feed your baby smaller meals more frequently, and avoid feeding them too quickly or too much.
• Use a curved bottle to hold your baby in an upright position during feeding.
• Burp your baby often to reduce swallowed air.

Other Tips

• Give your baby interesting things to look at, such as different shapes, colours, textures, and sizes.
• Talk to your baby or sing softly to them.
• Place your baby on their belly on your lap and gently rub their back.
• Go for a ride in the car, as the motion can be soothing.
• Use white noise, such as a fan or a white-noise machine, in your baby's room.
• Cuddle your baby; they cannot be spoiled by too much attention.

Remember, if you are feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, it is crucial to ask for help. Reach out to a trusted friend or family member, or contact your healthcare provider for support.

When to seek medical help

Colic is a common condition that affects up to 1 in 4 newborn babies. It usually resolves on its own by the time a baby is 3 to 4 months old, and in most cases, it is gone by 6 months. However, if you are concerned about your baby's crying or notice any other symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice.

Firstly, it is important to understand that colic is defined as crying for more than 3 hours a day, at least 3 days per week, for more than 3 weeks. If your baby is exhibiting these patterns of crying, they may have colic.

Secondly, before assuming your baby has colic, it is important to look for other signs of illness. Call your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Not sucking or drinking from a bottle well
• Drinking less milk than usual
• Having loose stools or diarrhoea
• Becoming more irritable when held or touched
• Having a strange-sounding cry
• Having a change in breathing rate or using extra effort to breathe
• Being more sleepy or sluggish than normal
• A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as directed by your healthcare provider

Additionally, if you are feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or frustrated by your baby's colic, it is important to reach out for help. Colic can be very stressful for parents, and it is crucial to take care of your own mental health. Ask a trusted friend or family member to help care for your baby while you take a break, or contact your healthcare provider for support.

Furthermore, if your baby is not gaining weight, shows dramatic changes in behaviour, or has any of the following symptoms, it is important to seek immediate medical attention:

• Forceful vomiting, especially if it is green or contains blood
• Blood in their stool

In summary, while colic is a common and typically harmless condition, it is important to seek medical advice if you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms. It is also crucial to prioritise your own mental health and reach out for support if needed.

Frequently asked questions