Infantile colic is frequent, intense crying in an otherwise healthy baby. It is often described as crying for more than three hours a day, three or more days a week.
A colicky baby can make you feel anxious and uncertain. They may be fussy or irritable, or cry for long periods, but otherwise they seem healthy. Colic is a common problem among newborns, though we know that doesn’t make it any easier on you or baby. It’s always distressing to hear your baby cry, but remember, you are not alone.
There are some ways you can comfort a crying baby in the meantime, listed below, but don’t forget to look after your own wellbeing, too. Try to get some rest while your baby sleeps, and try going for short walks with them. It will be a chance to get some fresh air and a good change of scenery for both of you.
Symptoms of colic in babies can appear when your baby is only a few weeks old, occurring in both boys and girls and in bottle-fed and breastfed babies. They will usually cry intensely, clench their fists, go red in the face, bring their knees up tight to their tummy or arch their back. They might have a rumbling or hard, bloated tummy with excessive wind after feeding, and you may feel like it’s impossible to settle them.
There is no obvious cause of newborn colic, but some possible contributing factors include:
• Your baby’s digestive system developing
• Excess wind or swallowing too much air
• Sensitivity to certain proteins they find harder to digest
This period will eventually pass. Colic crying typically improves by around 3 to 4 months of age, although for some babies it can last longer.
Here are some newborn colic relief tips to try:
• Cuddle your baby when they’re crying
• Feed your baby according to their hunger cues
• When feeding, hold your baby in a more upright position to help reduce the amount of air they swallow
• Burp your baby during or after feeding
• Hold your baby over your shoulder and gently rock them
• Give your baby a warm bath
• Try gentle, soothing background sounds
• Gently rub your baby’s back or tummy
Infant colic is common, and it will pass — but it can be exhausting, so look after yourself as well as your baby. If your baby’s crying seems different from usual, they appear unwell, are in pain or discomfort that doesn’t settle, or you are simply worried, speak to a doctor or healthcare professional for advice.
For more guidance and tips, explore the Karihome blog.
