Introduction

It’s late in the evening, and your baby has been crying for hours. You’ve tried feeding, rocking, burping, and singing—yet nothing works. Many parents are all too familiar with this exhausting scenario. The likely culprit? Infant colic.

Colic is a term used to describe excessive, unexplained crying in otherwise healthy babies. While it can be incredibly stressful for both parents and infants, the good news is that colic is a common and temporary condition that usually resolves on its own.

This blog will help you understand what colic is, why it happens, and, most importantly, what you can do to soothe your baby and care for yourself during this challenging time.

What is Infant Colic?

Doctors often use the “Rule of Threes” to define colic:

  • Crying for three or more hours a day
  • Three or more days a week
  • For three or more weeks

These crying episodes often occur in the late afternoon or evening, sometimes at the same time each day. Unlike ordinary fussiness, colic crying is intense, difficult to soothe, and may leave parents feeling helpless.

Key Characteristics of COLIC:

  • Predictable daily crying spells.
  • Inconsolable crying despite soothing efforts.
  • Physical signs such as clenched fists, stiffened bodies, or arching of the back.
  • The baby appears healthy, feeds normally, and gains weight appropriately outside of these episodes.

While crying can be distressing, colic is not harmful and does not mean anything is “wrong” with your baby.

What Causes Colic?

Despite decades of research, the exact causes of colic remain unclear. However, several theories provide possible explanations.

  1. Immature digestive system
    A baby’s gut is still developing, and difficulties digesting food may cause temporary discomfort.
  2. Gas and wind
    Swallowing air while feeding or crying may lead to trapped gas, which worsens fussiness.
  3. Overstimulation.
    Babies are highly sensitive to their environments. At the end of the day, their nervous system may become overwhelmed, triggering crying spells.
  4. Food Sensitivities/Allergies
    Some infants may react to proteins in cow’s milk, either through formula or breastfeeding.
  5. Hormonal changes?
    Certain hormones may influence a baby’s mood, digestion, or discomfort levels.

The truth is, colic is likely caused by a combination of factors, which is why no single explanation fits every baby.

Practical Management and Soothing Strategies

Now that we’ve covered what colic is and why it happens, let’s focus on the most critical part: what you can do. While there is no “cure,” many parents find relief through small changes and consistent soothing techniques.

Feeding adjustments

  • Check latch and position: Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, ensure your baby latches properly to reduce air swallowing.
  • Burping techniques: Burp your baby during and after feeding to release trapped gas.
  • Paced bottle feeding: Mimic breastfeeding by holding the bottle horizontally and giving breaks.
  • Hypoallergenic formulas: For formula-fed babies, discuss with your doctor whether switching to a special formula could help.

Physical soothing techniques

Paediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp introduced the “Five S’s,” which many parents find effective:

  1. Swaddling – Wrap your baby snugly in a light blanket.
  2. Side/Stomach Position – Hold your baby on their side or stomach (not for sleeping).
  3. Shushing – Use white noise or gentle shushing sounds.
  4. Swinging – Gentle rocking or bouncing motions.
  5. Sucking – Offer a pacifier for comfort.

Other helpful methods include gentle belly massages and carrying your baby in a sling to provide closeness and motion.

Environmental changes

  • Keep the room calm, quiet, and dimly lit during crying episodes.
  • Try white noise machines, fans, or calming music.
  • A short car ride or stroller walk soothes babies with rhythmic motion.

Self-Care for Parents

Caring for a colicky baby is draining. Remember:

  • Take breaks: It’s okay to put your baby safely in the crib and step away for a few minutes.
  • Ask for help: Share responsibilities with your partner, family, or trusted friends.
  • Release guilt: The illness is not your fault, and you are not doing anything wrong.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

While colic itself is a harmless condition, excessive crying may point to a more serious condition. Seek medical attention if your baby shows any of these red flag symptoms:

  • Frequent or forceful vomiting, especially green.
  • Fever.
  • Poor weight gain or refusal to eat.
  • Extreme tiredness or unusual lethargy.
  • Blood in the stool.

Your paediatrician can rule out other conditions and guide you toward the most effective strategies for your baby’s needs.

Conclusion

Infant colic can be one of the most challenging experiences for first-time parents. While the cause remains mysterious, we know that colic is temporary, usually improving by three to four months of age. In the meantime, strategies like feeding adjustments, soothing techniques, and creating a calm environment can make a big difference.

Most importantly, remember that you are not alone. Many parents face this same struggle, and support is available.

At Haritha Hospitals, our Pediatric Gastroenterology Department specialises in infant digestive health and provides personalised care for babies experiencing colic. If you are concerned about your baby’s crying or need expert guidance, we encourage you to book an appointment with our specialists today.

You are doing a fantastic job. This difficult phase will pass, and brighter, calmer days are ahead.

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