Colic and Crying

Colic is a term often used to describe the condition of an infant who regularly cries for such a long time that the crying upsets parents. It is also known as three-month colic and periodic irritability.

Most infants fuss at some time during the day, more commonly in the evening or early morning than during the day. About two-thirds of normal, healthy infants are fussy. Most of the time they fuss for one to four hours and only once a day.

A small percentage of infants cry very hard for hours at a time, even though they are fed, changed, and cuddled. These are the infants who are more likely to be labelled as "colicky." Parents need to know that long periods of crying should stop by the time the infant is about three months of age.

Why do babies become colicky?

We don't know for sure what causes colic. It has never been shown that there is anything wrong with the bowels of infants who cry excessively. Also, there is no strong evidence that the problem is due to gas, wind or food allergy.

Crying causes infants to swallow air, which they burp up or pass as wind. Because they strain and tighten their stomach muscles, this also forces air out of the rectum.

What can parents do?

Crying is a normal form of self-expression and communication for healthy infants. Still, parents often feel responsible when their baby cries. Long periods of crying are even more stressful for parents and may make the problem worse for both parents and baby. What you should remember is that colic during your baby's first three to four months does not mean that there will be any problems with his health in future years.

• Every effort should be made to maintain a regular routine for babies who cry. Their regular schedule should not be disrupted by excessive attempts to comfort them.
• When they are fussy, babies do better if they are not handled too much.
• They should not be passed from person to person and should not be frequently rocked, shook, patted and fed.
• Babies should be wrapped up snugly, comfortably cradled and soothingly and gently handled.
• Never shake your baby – if you start to feel angry and overwhelmed you can place you baby in their crib and take a time-out for a few moments.
• Reducing the noise and light levels may also help. Steady smooth vibrations, such as a rocking chair or a ride in the car, help to quiet many infants.
  

Source: Adapted from Well Beings, 1999

This information should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your physician. There may be variations in treatment that your physician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.