Colic in babies: causes, symptoms, and remedies

A baby crying can be extremely stressful for new parents, especially when nothing seems to soothe them. If this sounds familiar, your baby may be suffering from colic, a common issue many infants face. Although challenging, you are not alone, and with some patience, you'll be able to navigate through this difficult phase.

1. What is baby colic?

Colic is a phase many babies experience, where they might cry or become fussy in a way that can be hard to calm. It's a completely natural and temporary part of early life, and while it can be challenging, it's important to remember that you're doing your best. This phase doesn't last forever, and with time, your baby will grow and develop new ways of communicating. In the meantime, know that your care and presence bring comfort to your baby.

2. What are the symptoms of colic in babies?

It's important to know that if your baby is difficult to calm, it doesn't always mean they have colic. Babies cry for many reasons, and sometimes, even when all their primary needs have been met, they might continue to cry. However, infant colic has specific characteristics that help distinguish it. Typically, colicky crying lasts for more than three hours a day (though not necessarily all at once) and occurs at least three times a week, often in the late afternoon or evening.

During these episodes, you might notice your baby crying intensely, pulling their legs up, passing gas, clenching their fists, and turning red in the face. These behaviours, while distressing, are all part of the colic phase.

It's reassuring to know that outside these crying spells, colicky babies usually develop normally: they eat well, gain weight, and show no signs of illness. Infant colic isn't a disease but rather a temporary challenge that will pass, and during this phase, your baby is still growing and thriving. Keep in mind that you're doing a wonderful job, and this difficult period will eventually pass.

3. When does baby colic typically end?

Colic usually begins around 2-3 weeks of age, a time when babies are still adjusting to life outside the womb. While it can feel overwhelming, it's important to understand that this phase is temporary and typically resolves when your baby reaches about 5 months of age.

4. Do all babies experience colic?

Not all babies experience colic, and it's important to recognise that parents can sometimes confuse infant colic with other causes of discomfort, such as tiredness or overstimulation. After a busy day, full of new sights, sounds, and experiences, it's natural for babies to become tired or overwhelmed, which can make them fussy or irritable, especially in the evening. In this case, your baby might cry or seem grumpier, but this doesn't necessarily mean they have colic.

Overstimulation can occur when a baby has received too much sensory information or hasn't had enough time to wind down and relax. Tiredness can also build up throughout the day, and as a result, babies might become more sensitive or harder to soothe during the later hours. Unlike infant colic, these moments typically pass once your baby has had time to rest and recuperate, and the crying is usually not as intense or prolonged. It's a sign that your child is learning to manage their environment and needs, and with a little patience, they'll soon feel better. Recognising the difference between colic and simple tiredness or overstimulation can help provide reassurance: this challenging behaviour is often just a natural reaction to the day's experiences.

5. Should I take my baby to the doctor if I suspect colic?

If you suspect your baby has colic, it's always best to consult your doctor to confirm your suspicions. While colic is a common phase, it's important to rule out other potential causes for your baby's crying or fussiness. A visit to the doctor will provide peace of mind and ensure that your baby's needs are being met. Your doctor can thoroughly examine your baby, discuss your observations, and offer advice on how to manage the situation. If necessary, they can recommend safe and gentle remedies or medications to help ease your baby's discomfort. Knowing you have professional support can be reassuring, and you can rest easy knowing you're doing everything you can to care for your baby.

6. What are the main causes of infant colic?

The exact cause of colic in babies is not yet fully understood, but several potential factors can contribute to its occurrence. Here are some of them:

• Food intolerance: Conditions such as lactose intolerance or sensitivity to cow's milk protein can sometimes cause discomfort that manifests as excessive crying. If your baby reacts to certain foods, it can trigger symptoms that resemble colic.

• Immature digestive system: In early life, your baby's digestive system is still developing. This immaturity can lead to discomfort and difficulty in processing food, which may result in fussiness and crying.

• Incorrect feeding techniques : If a baby swallows too much air while feeding, it can cause gas to build up in their stomach, leading to discomfort and crying. This can sometimes be remedied by adopting correct feeding positions and techniques.

• Accumulation of intestinal gas: Gas build-up in the intestines can make your baby feel bloated and uncomfortable, contributing to colic. This is common in babies whose digestive systems are still learning to process food.

• Urinary tract infection (UTI): Although less common, a UTI can cause discomfort, often leading to crying and irritability. If your baby's crying seems unusual or is accompanied by other signs, a UTI might need to be ruled out.

If your baby experiences prolonged or intense crying, it's always best to consult a healthcare professional. They can help identify the underlying cause and provide appropriate solutions to alleviate your baby's discomfort.

7. What are the best ways to reduce the risk of colic in babies?

It's certainly important to pay attention to proper feeding techniques, as these can play a significant role in reducing your baby's discomfort. Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, if your baby swallows too much air during a feed, it can accumulate in their tummy, leading to painful gas and causing infant colic. To prevent this, ensure your baby has a good latch during breastfeeding or that the bottle is tilted to minimise air intake during bottle-feeding.

After every feed, always take a moment to help your baby burp. This will release trapped air and often provides immediate relief.

In cases of food intolerance, such as lactose intolerance, it's important to identify and eliminate the problematic ingredient from your baby's diet. For example, with lactose intolerance, you might consider removing lactose from your baby's diet or giving them an enzyme supplement like lactase, which helps break down lactose and aids digestion.

8. How can I reduce my baby's colic symptoms? Effective tips and remedies

Unfortunately, there is no medication that can completely eliminate colic in babies, but several soothing techniques can help alleviate symptoms and bring comfort to both you and your baby.

• Limit external stimuli : Overstimulation can worsen infant colic, so creating a calm and quiet environment is helpful. Reducing loud noises, bright lights, and hustle and bustle can help soothe your baby and allow both of you to find serenity.

• Follow a daily routine: Babies thrive on stability. Establishing a routine for feeding, napping, and bedtime can provide a sense of security and comfort. A consistent schedule can help reduce stress and ease your baby's discomfort.

• Learn massage techniques: Gently massaging your baby's belly can help relieve gas pain and colic symptoms. There are specific techniques designed to relax your baby's digestive system and relieve their discomfort. Many parents find this brings both comfort to the baby and relief.

• Tummy time: Placing your baby on their tummy, under supervision, can help strengthen their muscles and relieve gas. This position can often be soothing as it helps the digestive system work more efficiently.

• Warm compresses : Placing a warm blanket or cloth on your baby's belly can provide comfort and alleviate discomfort caused by colic or gas. Warmth can help relax muscles and bring relief.

• Gentle rocking: Sometimes, gentle swaying can help calm your baby. Rocking them up and down (vertically) rather than side to side can bring comfort, as it mimics the movements they experienced in the womb.

9. Does colic affect my baby's development?

While colic can be a painful and challenging experience for both baby and parents, it's important to know that it poses no threat to your baby's health or development. Although the crying and discomfort may seem overwhelming, infant colic is a temporary condition that doesn't affect your baby's long-term growth, development, or well-being. Your baby will continue to reach their developmental milestones, gain weight, and thrive despite the moments of fussiness.

It's simply a phase that many infants go through, and while it can be difficult, rest assured that it's not dangerous. With time and proper care, the colic will subside, and your baby will soon be calmer and more comfortable. You're doing a wonderful job, and this difficult period is just one step in your baby's journey of growth and development.

10. Can adapting a baby's diet help alleviate infant colic symptoms?

If food intolerance is suspected as the cause of colic, it is important to eliminate the offending ingredient from your baby's diet. In consultation with your doctor, you might consider switching from regular infant formula to a protein hydrolysate or milk substitute that is easier for your baby to digest. If you are breastfeeding, you could try an elimination diet, under your doctor's guidance, removing dairy products and eggs from your diet for a week to see if it makes a difference to your baby's symptoms.

In addition to dietary adjustments, some parents have found that probiotics, particularly those containing Lactobacillus reuteri, can help relieve colic symptoms. This probiotic strain has been shown to promote healthy digestion and may help reduce crying episodes in colicky babies.

Another gentle option to soothe your baby is to offer them peppermint tea. This can sometimes help relieve gas and bloating, and provide some comfort and relief from colic-related discomfort. As always, it's best to consult your pediatrician before trying any new treatments, but these measures, along with a little patience, can bring welcome relief to both your baby and yourself.