What is colic?
Colic is a term used when a baby cries frequently and intensely, and is difficult or impossible to soothe. There is disagreement among experts about a definition for colic, or if the term colic should even be used. Colic is sometimes diagnosed by the “rule of three”: crying about three hours per day, at least three times per week, for at least three weeks straight. The excessive crying typically begins in the second week of life and continues toward the end of the second month. After that, the colicky behaviour tapers off, usually ending by three or four months of age.
Some babies with colic may appear as if they are in pain. They may tend to stretch out their arms and legs, stiffen, and then draw in their arms and legs tightly to their bodies. Their stomach may be swollen and tight.
Causes of colic
Although colic was first described by the ancient Greeks, the cause of colic remains unknown. Many scientists believe that babies who are described as colicky do not have any condition, but are simply at one extreme of a normal pattern of infant crying in the first few months of life. Some have even asserted that excessive crying is a sign of physical health and vigour.
Some experts believe that more than one factor contributes to colic. There is growing evidence that individual differences in crying are related to development of the brain rather than development of the digestive system. There is no evidence to support psychosocial causes such as poor parenting. In a very few cases, less than 5%, there can be organic causes. There is some evidence linking maternal smoking to an increased risk of excessive crying and infant colic.
Facts about colic
- Estimates of the occurrence of colic vary greatly, but most range from 5% to 25% of babies.
- Crying is most frequent in the late afternoon or evening.
- Any baby can become colicky. It does not mean there is anything wrong with your baby.
- The cause of colic is unknown, but many doctors believe it is part of normal development for some babies.
- Colic goes away by three or four months of age in most cases.
- If your baby cries too much, see your doctor to make sure the crying is not a sign of a health problem.
- Colic can be very stressful for parents. If you feel tired or upset, ask someone else to take care of your baby for a while. If you can’t find someone to help, leave your baby in a safe place, like a crib, in another room for a while to get a break. It is okay to let your baby cry for a while. What matters is that most of the time, when your baby cries, you try to comfort her.
- Babies who have colic grow up normally.
- Colic is equally likely to occur in bottle fed and breastfed infants, so if you are breastfeeding a colicky baby, do not stop.
- Holding or rocking your baby and offering a pacifier might help.
- There is no evidence that medicines really help with colic.