Colic (children)

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Other names for Colic (children)

Baby Colic
Infantile Colic
Neonatal Colic
Pediatric Abdominal Colic

Synopsis of Colic (children)

Colic in children, especially in infants, refers to episodes of intense, unexplained crying and fussiness in an otherwise healthy and well-fed baby. It typically begins within the first few weeks of life and can last until about 3–4 months of age, though sometimes longer. The classic definition includes crying for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for more than three weeks—known as the "Rule of Threes."

The exact cause of colic is unknown, but theories include digestive discomfort (such as gas, bloating, or immature gut function), food sensitivities, overstimulation, or imbalance of gut microbiota. Colic is generally benign and self-limiting but can be distressing for both the baby and caregivers.

Types of Colic (Theories by Cause):

  • Digestive Colic: Related to gas, lactose intolerance, or immature digestion.

  • Neurological/Behavioral Colic: Due to overstimulation, temperament, or immature nervous system.

  • Microbiome-Related Colic: Linked to an imbalance of beneficial gut bacteria.

  • Feeding-Associated Colic: Linked to swallowing air, improper feeding techniques, or formula issues.

Common Causes (Theories):

  • Gas buildup or intestinal cramping

  • Immature digestive system

  • Sensitivity to cow’s milk protein or lactose

  • Overstimulation from environment (light, noise, activity)

  • Parental stress (may influence baby's stress responses)

  • Imbalance in gut microbiota (lower levels of beneficial bacteria)

Severity Factors:

  • Peaks around 6–8 weeks of age, usually improving by 3–4 months

  • Crying often occurs in the late afternoon or evening ("evening colic")

  • Persistent inconsolable crying can affect family stress and mental health

  • Rarely, underlying medical issues (e.g., hernia, reflux) should be ruled out

When to See a Doctor:

  • Excessive crying combined with poor feeding, vomiting, diarrhea, or fever

  • Blood in stool or signs of severe abdominal bloating

  • Failure to gain weight

  • High-pitched or painful-sounding crying

  • If crying persists beyond 4–5 months without improvement

Natural remedies for Colic (children)

Gentle rocking or swaddling: Provides security and calms the baby.

White noise: Replicates the sounds of the womb and soothes overstimulated infants.

Tummy time: Helps relieve gas and strengthens core muscles (only when awake and supervised).

Warm baths: Relax muscles and ease discomfort.

Massage: Gentle abdominal massage in a clockwise motion to encourage gas movement.

Burping frequently: During and after feeds to minimize swallowed air.

Modify feeding: Smaller, more frequent feedings; proper bottle angle to reduce air intake.

Probiotics (specific strains): Shown in some studies to help improve colic symptoms (e.g., Lactobacillus reuteri).

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