Overview
Caring for a baby who cries a lot or has colic is common in early parenting. But what exactly is colic in babies, and how is it different from normal newborn crying? It can happen with both breastfed and bottle-fed babies. Even though it’s normal, it can still feel very upsetting and stressful when it's happening in your home.
If your baby has colic, it can be especially hard. You might feel overwhelmed. It’s important to talk to people who can support you, like family, friends or your child and family health nurse.
Knowing what colic is and how it’s different from other types of crying can help you decide what to try at home and when to reach out for support.
A healthcare provider may conduct a physical exam to diagnose colic, assessing your child's symptoms and health history.
In this blog, we will help you better identify when it may be colic or some other cause of excessive crying, as well as provide some tips for soothing a colicky baby.
What Is Colic in Babies? How It Differs from Normal Crying
Colic essentially refers to prolonged periods of inconsolable crying in an otherwise healthy baby, often described as colic symptoms.
Infant colic typically starts around two weeks of age and can last until the baby is about three to four months old. Infant colic can be particularly stressful for parents, as it involves excessive crying and fussiness in otherwise healthy infants.
As opposed to regular crying, some of the key signs of colic include when your baby’s crying:
- lasts for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for at least three weeks,
- usually occurs in the late afternoon or evening, and
- includes clenching of their fists, arching of their back, as well as a bright red face.
While both colic and excessive crying involve long periods of distress, colic is specifically characterised by predictable patterns, whereas excessive crying can occur for various other reasons.
Colic can be one reason for your baby’s excessive crying, but understanding the difference can help you know how best to respond and/or seek medical advice.
Some of the questions you can ask:
Is your baby hungry or tired? Babies may cry if they’re not getting enough to eat or if they are overstimulated or not getting enough sleep.
Is your baby physically uncomfortable? Wet nappies, tight clothing, or room temperature can cause discomfort.
Infections, reflux, or other medical conditions can also make babies cry more than usual.
Additionally, trapped gas can cause pain and discomfort, leading to crying.
Learn more about newborn crying here.
How Can I Soothe My Colicky Baby?
It’s normal to feel stressed or upset when your baby is crying a lot.
Every baby is different, and while there is no single cure for colic, many parents find these strategies reduce colic symptoms and make caring for a colicky baby more manageable:
- Swaddling: Wrapping your baby can provide comfort and security.
- Rocking and Swinging: Gentle motion can help calm a fussy baby.
- White Noise: Sounds like a fan, vacuum cleaner, or a white noise machine can be soothing.
- Pacifiers: Some babies find comfort in sucking on a dummy.
- Massage: Gently massaging your baby’s tummy can help relieve gas and discomfort.
- Warm Bath: A warm bath can be a soothing method for dealing with a colicky baby, providing comfort and calming both the baby and the parent.
These tips might not stop all the crying, but they can help you and your baby feel a little calmer.
When Do I Need To Be Worried?
While colic in babies is common, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if:
- Your baby’s crying sounds different or is very high-pitched.
- Your baby has other symptoms like fever, vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Your baby is not feeding well or is not gaining weight.
- You’ve tried everything and your baby is still very unsettled.
Also, if you feel overwhelmed, it’s important to get help. You are not alone, and support is available.
Never shake a baby. Shaking a baby can cause serious brain injury (shaken baby syndrome). If you feel frustrated, put your baby in a safe place like their cot, and take a short break.
your baby’s crying sounds unusual or is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever,
You know your baby best, so trust in your instincts and seek help if something does not feel right.
While Colic is Temporary, it is Stressful
Excessive crying can be stressful for both parents and babies, but understanding the potential causes and knowing how to soothe your crying baby can make a big difference.
Remember, colic is temporary for young babies and typically resolves on its own between 3 to 6 months of age, which can help alleviate parental anxiety.
There is no long-term impact on your baby’s health, and most babies outgrow colic without any lasting issues.
If you have concerns about your baby’s crying, contact our child and family health nurses for more guidance and support.
