Colic in Babies

If a healthy newborn cries for hours and nothing helps, they may have colic. Colic isn’t a disease or a serious problem, but it can leave many parents feeling helpless, exhausted and stressed.

If you think your baby has colic, a health care provider can give support and advice. At Banner Health, our pediatric experts share helpful tips to soothe your baby and make this time easier for you.

What is colic?

Colic is a common condition that affects many babies in their first few months — approximately 1 in 5 babies have colic. Colic means a baby cries a lot even though they are otherwise healthy. Health care providers use the rule of threes to describe colic: 1) Crying lasts more than three hours a day; 2) At least three days a week; 3) For three or more weeks.

These crying episodes often happen in the late afternoon or evening, making it hard for parents to get rest and relief. Colic often peaks when a baby is six weeks old and then declines around three to four months old. While colic eventually goes away on its own, it can be exhausting. 

A Banner Health specialist can provide support and guidance to help you through this time. 

What causes colic?

The exact cause of colic isn’t known but several factors may play a role, including:

• Digestive issues: Some babies have trouble digesting food or swallow too much air while feeding or nursing.
• Overstimulation: Newborns are still adjusting to the world and some get overwhelmed more easily.
• Sensitivity to formula or breastmilk: Certain ingredients in formula or foods in a breastfeeding parent’s diet may cause discomfort.
• Developing nervous system: Some experts think colic is part of a baby’s adjustment to life outside of the womb and is often seen in babies who may not have learned how to self-soothe. 
• Gas or acid reflux: Some babies experience tummy troubles that make them gassy or uncomfortable. While spitting up is normal, it is important to pace feeding and not overfeed your baby.   

Signs of colic

All babies cry. It’s how they communicate hunger, discomfort or tiredness. But colic is different. 

Your baby may have colic if they:

• Cry intensely for long periods, even when they are fed, changed and comfortable
• Are difficult to soothe, no matter what you try
• Clench their fists, arch their back or pull their legs up as if in pain
• Turn red in the face from prolonged crying
• Have gas or a bloated belly from swallowing air while crying

If this sounds familiar, know that colic is common and not a sign of poor parenting. It doesn’t mean your baby is sick but it can be tough to manage.

How is colic diagnosed?

There is no specific test for colic. Instead, a health care provider will rule out other possible causes. They will ask about your baby’s feeding, sleeping and crying patterns. They may also do a physical exam to check for signs of illness or discomfort.

How to soothe a colicky baby

Calming a colicky baby can take time and patience. Different techniques work for different babies, so you may need to try a few methods before finding what works best. 

Here are some methods that may help:

Comforting techniques

• Hold your baby close: Swaddling, skin-to-skin contact or carrying your baby in a sling may provide them comfort.
• Rocking or gentle movement: Swaying, bouncing or taking a car ride can be soothing.
• White noise: Soft sounds like a fan, clothes dryer, vacuum or other white noise can create a calming atmosphere. Making a shushing sound can also help. 
• Pacifier, binky or soothie: Sucking can help some babies feel more relaxed.
• Warm bath: A gentle bath may help your baby unwind.
• Lay your baby on their tummy: The gentle pressure against their belly may help comfort your baby. If they fall asleep this way, place them on their back for sleep. 
• Gently massage: Stroking their back or stomach may help calm them. 

Feeding adjustments

• Keep a food diary: If breastfeeding, track your diet to see if certain foods affect your baby. Common foods mothers eat which might make colic worse in breastfeeding babies are milk, caffeine, onions and cabbage. Try eliminating one at a time to see if it helps. 
• Try a different formula: If formula feeding, ask your provider about switching to one that’s easier on your baby’s stomach.
• Feed upright: Keep your baby in an upright position and burp them often to reduce swallowed air. 
• Avoid overfeeding: Try not to overfeed your infant and space out feedings. 

Create a calming environment

• Lower stimulation: Dim lights and reduce noise to avoid overwhelming your baby.
• Follow a routine: A predictable schedule can help your baby feel more secure.

When to see a health care provider

Colic usually goes away on its own by 3 to 4 months of age. However, contact your baby’s provider if they:

• Experience fever, vomiting, diarrhea or problems gaining weight
• Cry in a way that sounds different from normal colic episodes
• Struggle with feeding or seem overly tired and unresponsive

Support for parents

Caring for a colicky baby can be exhausting. Remember to take care of yourself, too. Here are some tips to help you cope:

• Take breaks: If you’re overwhelmed, place your baby in a safe spot and take a few minutes to breathe. You can also go outside for some fresh air. 
• Ask for help: Lean on family, friends or your partner for support. 
• Rest when you can: Sleep deprivation can increase stress. Nap when possible. 
• Talk to someone: Colic can take a toll on mental health. Studies show parents of colicky babies are at a higher risk of developing postpartum depression and anxiety. Talk to a trusted friend, support group, health care provider or a licensed therapist if you’re struggling.

You’re not alone

Caring for a baby with colic can be tough, but it won’t last forever. Be patient. Most babies outgrow colic by four months old. In the meantime, take care of yourself and ask for help when you need it. 

If you’re concerned about your baby’s crying or need support, Banner Health is here to help. Schedule an appointment with a pediatrician today to receive expert guidance.