They’ve fed and had a nappy change yet continue to wail with clenched fists like they’re in pain, but as a parent you just can’t seem to figure it out. It may well be colic.

As a paediatrician, I specifically dedicate a 6 week first visit for all my recurring patients to deal with matters arising in the crucial neonatal period (the first 28 days of life) and colic is the most raised topic by moms and dads. There is also a special 2 week visit for all first time parents to address these issues as early as possible as they can cause great stress for families. 

Here are some frequently asked questions about this common occurrence:

WHAT IS COLIC?

Firstly, let me start by highlighting that it isn’t a disease or physical illness. It is intense, frequent and prolonged crying and fussiness in your baby. Experts agree that colic is when an infant who is otherwise fine and healthy (not sick or hungry) cries longer than three hours a day, more than three days in a week and for more than three weeks. It usually begins around 2-4 weeks and goes away by 3-4 months. You may be thinking “that’s such a long time!” Well the episodes do get shorter, usually lasting 1-2 hours until baby is 3-4 months old.

WHAT CAUSES COLIC?

There could be different causes and factors at play. But it can happen to any baby; regardless of whether they are breast-fed or formula fed.

Some of the causes or triggers include:

• Underdeveloped digestive system or imbalance of healthy bacteria in their digestive system.
• Not enough burping during feeds.
• Food allergies .
• Infant acid reflux (GERD).
• Possible allergies or milk intolerance – for a breastfed baby it may be something in your diet and for a formula fed baby it may be an ingredient in the formula.
• Overstimulation.
• Exposure to tobacco smoke.

HOW CAN I TELL IF MY BABY HAS COLIC?

• Excessive and inconsolable crying that seems like screaming.
• Episodes start around the same time each day (usually at night between 6 and 12pm).
• Extending or pulling up of baby’s legs to his/her tummy.
• Clenching fists.
• Bloated tummy.
• May pass gas while crying.

WHAT DO I DO IF MY BABY HAS COLIC?

• Try burping baby more often, not just at the end of the feed but during feeds as well.
• If you’re breastfeeding, eliminate certain foods from your diet. Keep track of what you’re eating and drinking and speak to your healthcare provider.
• Switch formulas – check with your healthcare provider about other alternatives.
• Soothe your little one with rocking, walking around, holding and close contact.
• Try a baby massage and warm bath.
• Play soft music or white noise and sing or talk to baby.

There is unfortunately no cure for colic and just remember that your little one may keep crying no matter what you try. Keep trying a number of these different approaches, baby will eventually outgrow this phase.

If absolutely nothing seems to help, contact your paediatrician and they can determine whether another medical condition might be the issue or they may prescribe medication that will help baby feel better.

Also visit your paediatrician or seek immediate medical attention if baby is:

• Over 6 months old and is still having colicky episodes.
• Running a fever.
• Not feeding well.
• Vomiting or having diarrhea or bloody stools.
• You as a parent also need to find a way to manage the stress. Get support, make sure you take breaks and don’t blame yourself. This phase passes sooner than you think.