COLIC IN BABIES IS TEMPORARY

  COLIC IN BABIES IS TEMPORARY

Colic is intense, prolonged crying and fussiness in a healthy baby, often starting in the first few weeks and peaking around six weeks, usually resolving by 3-4 months, characterized  by loud, inconsolable spells (often in the evening) with no obvious cause, even though the baby is otherwise well-fed and growing. During a colic bout, babies may clench fists, arch their back, draw up legs, have a red face, and be difficult to soothe, with the crying fitting the "rule of threes": 3+ hours a day, 3+ days a week, for 3+ weeks. 

Key Characteristics

Excessive Crying: Crying for 3+ hours daily, 3+ days a week, for over a week.

Inconsolable: Standard soothing methods don't work.

Predictable Timing: Often occurs in the late afternoon or evening.

Physical Signs: Red face, clenched fists, tense belly, arched back, pulling legs to chest.

Healthy Baby: The baby is thriving, eating, and gaining weight. 

What It's Not (When to Call a Doctor)

Colic is a diagnosis of exclusion; check for signs of illness first. Call your doctor if your baby has: 

Fever (100.4°F/38°C or higher).

Poor feeding or weak sucking.

Unusual sleepiness or sluggishness.

Vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in breathing. 

Common (But Not Proven) Causes & Theories

Immature Nervous System: Difficulty self-soothing or adapting to stimulation.

Digestive Issues: Gas, tummy rumbling, or sensitivity to food.

Swallowing Air: Can be reduced by upright feeding. 

What to Do

Rule Out Illness: See your pediatrician to ensure no medical issue.

Soothe: Try swaddling, white noise, rocking, or a warm bath.

Feed Carefully: Burp often, try upright feeding.

Self-Care: Manage your own stress; colic is temporary and doesn't harm the baby long-term.