What to know about colic in babies

Colic is a pattern of prolonged crying in a baby who may otherwise appear healthy and feed normally. The baby may clench their fists, draw up their legs, turn red or have a tense tummy. Crying can happen at a similar time of day and may be exhausting for everyone at home. Colic is not a sign that a parent has caused harm, and crying alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.

Check for hunger, a wet nappy, overheating, trapped wind or an uncomfortable position. Try holding the baby close, gentle rocking, quiet background noise, or a calm change of room. Keep feeds unhurried and burp the baby if needed. If you feel overwhelmed, place the baby on their back in a safe cot and step away briefly; never shake a baby. Ask someone trusted to share care.

Seek urgent help if crying comes with breathing difficulty, blue or pale skin, marked sleepiness, a seizure, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, blood in the stool, fever in a very young baby, or refusal to feed. Arrange a medical review when the pattern is new, the baby is not gaining weight, wet nappies decrease, or your instincts say something is wrong.

Ask whether the baby’s growth and feeding are reassuring, how to distinguish colic from reflux or allergy, which soothing methods are safe, and what local support is available when crying becomes overwhelming.