Definition

Colic is excessive crying in a baby who is otherwise healthy. It makes it hard to console the baby.

It usually starts between 2 and 6 weeks of age. The crying happens regularly over three weeks or more. It is more common in the late afternoon or evening.

Causes

The exact cause is not known.

Risk Factors

Colic is common. Some things that may raise the risk are:

• Maternal smoking during pregnancy
• Firstborn status
• Parental depression during pregnancy

Symptoms

The main problem is crying episodes that last longer than three hours and make it hard to console the baby. A baby may also:

• Draw his or her arms and legs toward body
• Turn red from crying
• Pass gas or burp a lot
• Have problems passing stool
• Make tight fists, kick, or arch his or her back

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your baby's symptoms and health history. You will also be asked how your baby acts when crying, how long crying lasts, and when it happens. A physical exam will be done. This is enough to make the diagnosis in a baby that has no other health problems.

Treatment

There is no cure for colic. Colic usually goes away on its own by the time a baby is 3 to 6 months of age.

Steps can be taken to manage symptoms. Options are:

Prevention

Probiotics may help to prevent colic in some babies.