Infant colic
Infant colic is long periods of intense crying in a healthy, well-fed baby, often in the late afternoon or evening. It usually starts at 2 to 3 weeks of age, is worst around 6 weeks, and goes away by 3 to 4 months. The exact cause is unknown and it does not harm the baby, but it is very tiring for parents. A doctor should check the baby to make sure there is no other cause for the crying.
Symptoms
- Crying for more than 3 hours a day, on more than 3 days a week
- Crying that is hard to calm, often at the same time each day
- The face goes red, the fists clench and the legs pull up to the belly
- Passing gas while crying
- The baby feeds well and gains weight normally between episodes
Causes
- The exact cause is not known
- A still-developing gut and nervous system
- Swallowing air during feeding or crying
- Sensitivity to noise, stimulation or tiredness
- Rarely, cow milk protein allergy or reflux — a doctor can check
Prevention
- Colic cannot always be prevented
- Hold the baby upright during feeds and burp the baby during and after each feed
- Make sure the baby latches well to reduce swallowed air
- Keep a calm, quiet routine, especially in the evening
- Do not smoke in the home
Treatment
- Hold, rock or walk with the baby; gentle sounds or a warm bath can help
- Skin-to-skin contact, holding the baby on your chest
- Keep breastfeeding; a breastfeeding mother usually does not need to change her diet unless a doctor advises it
- It is fine to put the baby down safely in the cot and take a few minutes of rest if you feel stressed
- Never shake a baby — shaking can cause brain damage or death
- Do not give gripe water, herbal teas, opium or other medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Is something wrong with my milk?
Almost always, no. Colic happens in breastfed and formula-fed babies alike. Keep breastfeeding; if the baby is gaining weight well, your milk is enough.
Why should I never give opium or sleeping medicine to a crying baby?
Opium (taryak) and sleeping medicines can slow or stop a baby breathing and can cause addiction, poor feeding and death. They do not treat colic. Ask a health worker for safe help instead.