COLIC IN INFANTS

 Basic information

description

• Colic in infants involves repeated episodes of excessive crying that cannot be explained. The baby is healthy and does not have a specific disorder, such as an ear infection. Colic is different in each baby
  • It is sometimes defined as crying for 3 hours a day at least 3 days a week for 3 consecutive weeks.
  • Infant colic can also be defined as whatever amount of crying seems excessive to the parent(s). This is affected by how successful they feel at soothing their baby. It is frustrating not to be able to soothe a baby. Babies who are difficult to soothe may be more apt to be termed "colicky" even if their actual crying time is no different from another baby who cries a lot but can be easily consoled.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• Crying ranges from being fussy to a high-pitched, loud cry. Crying periods usually occur in late afternoon or evening.
• Colic usually begins at 2 to 4 weeks and can last through several months.
• The infant's stomach may rumble, face may be flushed (red), and the child may draw up the legs as if in pain. There may be passing of gas.

causes

Unknown. Some possible, but not proven, causes include an immature nervous or digestive system, food allergy or food intolerance, or the baby is extra sensitive to things going on in the home.

risk increases with

No known risk factors.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures.

expected outcomes

• Colic will resolve on its own with time. It is a temporary condition. It peaks at about 4 to 6 weeks of age and then begins to improve slowly. It is almost always gone by 3 to 5 months of age.
• Various soothing methods may or may not be of help.
• Colicky babies tend to eat well and gain weight and develop normally.

possible complications

There are usually none for the baby. In parents, it can cause distress, depression, sleep loss, marital problems, and a feeling that their parenting ability is lacking.

 diagnosis & treatment

general measures

• The baby's health care provider will examine the infant and ask questions about the crying, feeding, and other behaviors. Once any medical problems are ruled out, the diagnosis of colic can be made.
• Parents can be assured that it is not something they are doing or not doing that is causing the colic.
• No single treatment for colic has been shown to work for sure. Parents may try several methods. Your baby's health care provider may suggest certain techniques.
• Some babies may be soothed by being held close to a parent's chest and carried. A pacifier may help. Some babies like motion (rocking chair, cradle, stroller, swing, or a car trip). Others respond to a warm bath, or gentle massage, or being swaddled (wrapped snugly). Music or background noise (e.g., a vacuum or electric fan) may be of benefit.
• Do not overstimulate the baby. Babies under 3 months may cry less if a parent stops jiggling, patting, or generally making them too excited.
• Parents may find it helpful to seek out the support of other parents who have been through this before.
• Ask someone to take care of the baby in order to give you a break as often as possible. Parents need to get rest and try to avoid becoming too stressed.

medications

Drugs are usually not helpful for colic. Don't use any herbs or other supplements without medical approval.

activity

No limits.

diet

• Try burping the baby more often. Hold the baby in an upright position for 20 minutes after feeding.
• Breast-feeding mothers may try avoiding dairy, nuts, or foods that cause gas (e.g., beans, cabbage, etc.).
• A change in baby formula may be recommended.

 notify our office if

• Your baby has colic and you are concerned about it.
• You fear that you are about to lose emotional control.

Special Notes: