Infant colic is when a healthy baby cries a lot, often for no obvious reason. It usually starts at around 2-3 weeks of age and can last until they are three or four months old. A baby with colic may cry for several hours a day, for at least three days a week, and it can go on for three or more weeks. The crying often happens in the evening and can it can be difficult to settle the baby.
They may cry more often in the afternoon and evening. When they are crying, other possible signs of colic include:
- they clench their fists
- they go red in the face
- they bring their knees up to their tummy
- they arch their back
- their tummy rumbles or they’re very windy
Causes of Colic
The exact cause of colic is unclear. Some babies may have tummy pain from wind, or reflux, or trouble digesting certain foods. Other research suggests that colic could be to do with an immature digestive system or a gut bacteria imbalance.
NHS Information
The NHS provides some very good advice and information on Colic. This includes reminding young parents not to forget their own well being, as well as caring for a baby with colic.
The NHS in Wales has also developed a leaflet on colic.
Treating Colic
Your baby does not usually need to see a doctor if they have colic. The NHS advises speaking to your health visitor for their experience, advice and support.
There is no single cure for colic, but there are ways to help soothe a crying baby. Holding the baby looking over your shoulder, rocking them gently, or soothing sounds or soft music can help. Some parents find that feeding changes, such as adjusting the baby’s bottle or trying a different formula, may reduce symptoms. Winding the baby after feeds and holding them upright can also reduce the building up of wind.
- hold or cuddle your baby when they’re crying a lot
- sit or hold your baby upright during feeding to stop them swallowing air
- wind your baby after feeds
- gently rock your baby over your shoulder
- gently rock your baby in their Moses basket or crib, or push them in their pram
- bath your baby in a warm bath
- have some gentle white noise like the radio or TV in the background to distract them
- keep feeding your baby as usual – you do not need to make any changes to your diet if you’re breastfeeding
Do not give your baby anti-colic drops or supplements as there is little evidence these work
Do not try putting gentle pressure to your baby’s spine (spinal manipulation) or skull (cranial osteopathy) – there is little evidence this works, and it may hurt your baby
Colic is stressful for parents, but it is not harmful to the baby and usually goes away on its own. If the baby has other symptoms like fever, vomiting, or poor weight gain, parents should see a doctor to rule out other issues.
If Symptoms get Worse
Dial NHS 111 or see a GP if:
- you’re worried about your baby’s crying
- your baby has colic and nothing seems to be working
- you’re finding it hard to cope
- your baby is not growing or putting on weight as expected
- your baby still has symptoms of colic after 4 months of age
A GP will check for possible causes of your baby’s crying
Dial 999 or go to A&E
- your baby has a weak or high-pitched cry
- your baby’s cry does not sound like their normal cry
You know better than anyone else what your child is usually like.
Trust your instincts if you think something is seriously wrong, particularly if they have other worrying symptoms.