Colic in Babies: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Colic is frequent, prolonged crying in a healthy baby that starts around 2 weeks old and resolves by 3-4 months. It affects about 1 in 5 infants. The cries are often intense and occur daily, especially in the evening. While distressing, colic isn't harmful and isn't caused by parenting. The exact cause isn't known, but it may relate to gut sensitivity or nervous system development. Always check with your pediatrician to rule out other causes.

In plain words

Colic is when a healthy baby cries a lot for no clear reason. These crying spells usually start when babies are about 2 weeks old and stop by 3-4 months. The crying often happens in the evening and can last for hours. About 1 in 5 babies gets colic. Even though it's upsetting to hear, colic isn't harmful and doesn't mean your baby is sick. Doctors don't know exactly what causes it, but it might be related to a baby's growing digestive system or nerves. It's not caused by anything you're doing wrong as a parent. Always check with your baby's doctor to make sure there's no other problem causing the crying.

What is Colic in Babies: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment?

Symptoms

Early symptoms

Prolonged crying episodes: Crying lasts 3+ hours per day, often at the same time (usually late afternoon or evening). The crying sounds intense and high-pitched. (2) (6)
Difficulty soothing: Baby resists usual comforting methods like feeding, rocking, or diaper changes. Crying continues even when all needs are met. (2) (5)
Clenched fists and curled legs: During episodes, baby may pull legs toward belly, clench hands, or arch back. (6) (7)
Flushed face: Face may turn red from prolonged crying despite no signs of fever or illness. (2)

Serious or emergency symptoms

Fever with crying: Temperature above 100.4°F (38°C) along with crying may indicate infection rather than colic. Contact your pediatrician immediately. (2)
Poor feeding or weight loss: If baby isn't eating well, has vomiting, or isn't gaining weight, this suggests a medical problem. Schedule urgent doctor visit. (2)

Causes

Primary causes

Immature digestive system: Temporary difficulty digesting milk or passing gas may cause discomfort in some babies. (6) (7)
Developing nervous system: Some babies may be sensitive to stimuli and have trouble self-regulating in the evenings. (6) (7)
Gut bacteria imbalance: Evolving gut microbiome might contribute to digestive discomfort in early months. (6)

Risk factors

Newborn age

Colic affects about 20% of infants, peaking around 6 weeks old. (6)

Diagnosis

Your pediatrician will use the "rule of three" – crying for at least 3 hours daily, 3+ days weekly, lasting 3+ weeks – in an otherwise healthy baby. They'll first rule out other causes like reflux, infection, or allergies through a physical exam and discussion of symptoms. Tracking crying patterns can help with diagnosis.

Physical examination

To check for signs of illness, infection, or physical causes of discomfort. (6)

Treatment

Medication options

Simethicone drops

May help reduce gas in some babies, though evidence is limited. (3)

Lifestyle and self-care

Swaddling and gentle rocking: Creating a snug, womb-like feeling with secure swaddling while rocking gently may help calm some babies. (3) (5)
White noise or shushing sounds: Sounds like a fan, washing machine, or specialized white noise can be soothing by mimicking womb sounds. (5) (8)
Football hold or babywearing: Carrying baby tummy-down along your forearm or in a carrier provides gentle pressure that may help. (8) (3)
Take breaks when needed: It's safe to place baby in crib for 10 minutes if you feel overwhelmed. Ask for help from others to give yourself rest. (5) (8)

Always discuss dosing and treatment changes with your own prescriber.

Possible complications

Parental stress and exhaustion: Persistent crying can lead to caregiver fatigue, anxiety, and in some cases postpartum depression. (6)

When to see a doctor

Routine follow-up

Schedule a visit if crying fits the colic pattern but you want confirmation it's not something else. (1) (8)
See your pediatrician if lifestyle changes aren't helping and the crying is causing significant family stress. (3)

Seek emergency care

Seek immediate care if baby has fever, vomiting, diarrhea, won't eat, or seems in pain (not just fussy). (2)
Call emergency help if you ever feel at risk of shaking your baby – take a break and get support immediately. (8)

Frequently asked questions

What is colic in babies?

Colic is prolonged, intense crying in healthy infants that follows a pattern: at least 3 hours/day, 3+ days/week, lasting 3+ weeks. It typically starts at 2-3 weeks old, peaks at 6 weeks, and improves by 3-4 months without lasting effects. (1) (6)

What are the first signs of colic in babies?

Key early signs are sudden, intense evening crying that's hard to soothe (even when fed/clean), clenched fists, pulled-up legs, and flushed face – without fever or illness symptoms. It follows the 'rule of three' timing pattern in an otherwise growing baby. (2) (5)

What causes colic in babies?

The exact cause is unknown, but theories include gut immaturity, developing nervous system sensitivity, or early gut bacteria balance. It's not caused by parenting style or anything you're doing wrong. Food sensitivities only explain rare cases. (6) (7)

How is colic in babies treated?

No cure exists, but many babies respond to swaddling, white noise, rocking holds, and consistency. Simethicone drops may help some. Never try unproven remedies without pediatric approval. Most importantly, get support to cope with this temporary phase. (3) (8)

Can colic in babies be cured?

Colic naturally resolves between 3-4 months as a baby's systems mature. In the meantime, focus on soothing techniques that work for your baby and getting support. Remember this is temporary, not harmful, and unrelated to your parenting skills. (1) (6)