Infant Colic: Understanding and Supporting Your Baby

What is Infant Colic?

Infant colic is generally defined as excessive crying in an otherwise healthy baby, with no identifiable cause, for more than three hours a day, at least three days a week.

During a colic episode, babies may cry intensely and be difficult to soothe. They may also:

• Pull their legs up towards their tummy or stretch them out.
• Squirm or wriggle.
• Pass gas.
• Have a tight or bloated abdomen.

Crying can occur at any time of the day but is often more pronounced in the late afternoon or early evening.

When Does Colic Occur?

Colic typically begins between the second and fourth week of life. Symptoms usually improve gradually and most often resolve by 3 to 4 months of age.

Infant colic is common and is estimated to affect up to 30% of infants.

What Causes Colic?

Despite being common, the exact cause of infant colic remains unknown.

Several theories have been proposed, including the immaturity of the baby’s digestive system or nervous system, which may contribute to these episodes of excessive crying. However, no single cause has been clearly identified.

Are Any Tests Needed?

If your baby is growing well and the physical examination is reassuring, additional investigations such as blood tests or medical imaging are generally not required.

However, if the crying is accompanied by unusual symptoms, or if you have any concerns about your baby’s health, you should consult your healthcare professional.

What Can Help?

Some feeding adjustments may help reduce discomfort in certain infants. However, there is no single treatment that is effective for every baby, and medications are generally not recommended for the routine management of infant colic.

Recent research suggests that certain probiotic strains may be beneficial for some infants. Their use should always be discussed with a healthcare professional to determine whether they are appropriate for your baby.

A Challenge for Parents

Infant colic can be physically and emotionally exhausting for parents and caregivers, often causing stress, worry and sleep deprivation. Although the crying can be difficult to cope with, colic is generally a temporary and harmless condition.

Providing reassurance, listening to parents’ concerns and helping families understand the temporary nature of colic are key aspects of care.

If your baby’s crying seems excessive, or if you feel overwhelmed, do not hesitate to seek advice from your healthcare professional. They can assess your baby’s health, provide reassurance and recommend the most appropriate support if needed.

Reference:

Xinias I. et al. Innovative Dietary Intervention Answers to Baby Colic. Pediatr Gastroenterol Hepatol Nutr 2017 June 20(2):100-106