Colic

Colic (intense and excessive crying) is one of the most common problems reported during the first few months of an infant's life. The most widely accepted definition for colic is excessive crying lasting more than 3 hours a day, 3 times a week, for at least 3 weeks.

Causes

Although the exact cause of colic is still unknown, there are many theories on why a baby may have colic. For example, some believe that babies cry because they are hungry, while others believe it is because they have eaten too much. Others may be intolerant to certain foods ingested by the mother or to proteins found in certain infant formulas. The intestines of newborns may not be fully mature and may therefore have difficulty absorbing certain nutrients.

Remember that crying is a baby's way of communicating, since they cannot speak yet. So it may also simply be due to overstimulation, fatigue or frustration.

Symptoms

In addition to the infant's intense, excessive and inconsolable crying, certain behaviour characteristics are associated with colic. These include:

• Stomach distention
• Flatulence
• Knees tightly drawn to the abdomen
• Clenched fists
• Facial redness

Colic does not lead to any other complications. In fact, colic in newborns generally appears suddenly around their third week of life and disappears just as suddenly around three months of age.

Treatment

To date, no medications have been shown to cure colic. The following measures, however, may help you calm and soothe the baby:

• Feed the baby in an upright position and burp them frequently.
• If breastfeeding, try to temporarily stop eating some categories of food such as dairy products, peanuts, nuts and eggs to see if this could be the source of the problem (consult your health care provider to discuss this option).
• If the baby is fed with a commercial infant formula, switching formulas might help (consult your health care provider to discuss this option).
• Try feeding the baby more often but in smaller amounts.
• Wrap the baby in a soft blanket.
• Give the baby a warm bath.
• Gently rub the baby's stomach.
• Let the baby suck (e.g., on a pacifier).
• Gently rock the baby.
• Carry the baby in a sling or baby carrier.
• Practice skin-to-skin contact by placing the baby, in their diaper, on a bare-chested adult.
• Take the baby out for a walk (in a stroller) or car ride.
• Sing lullabies, listen to soft music or white noise (e.g., the sound of a dryer, rainfall).

It is a misconception that comforting a baby as soon as they cry will spoil them. On the contrary, offering comfort is part of their development and helps build the child's sense of trust.

You may sometimes feel exasperated and at wit's end. Take some time to regroup. Make sure the child is safe and leave the room while you regain your composure. Never hesitate to ask for help when you are feeling overwhelmed and remember that in time, the child's colic will go away.

When should I see a health care professional?

Consult your health care provider in the following cases:

• Symptoms continue to worsen after the 8^th week
• The child is no longer feeding or is not gaining weight
• Frequent vomiting or vomiting with blood
• Diarrhea or blood in the stool
• The child's behaviour is different from their usual habits (e.g., excessive drowsiness)
• The child has a fever (38°C or higher).