Colic in babies can be a frustrating and exhausting experience for both the baby and parents. Characterized by prolonged crying, colic usually begins when a baby is around 3 weeks old and can persist for several months. In this blog, we’ll cover what causes colic in infants, how to recognize the symptoms, and the best remedies to soothe your colicky baby, including some old home remedies passed down through generations.
What is Colic in Infants?
Colic refers to long periods of intense crying in an otherwise healthy infant. The crying usually occurs at the same time each day, most often in the late afternoon or evening. Colic typically peaks at around 6 weeks and tends to resolve by the time the baby is 3 to 4 months old. Babies with colic are known to cry for more than 3 hours a day, at least 3 days a week, for over 3 weeks.
What Causes Colic in Infants?
Although the exact cause of colic remains unknown, there are several factors believed to contribute to it:
- Digestive Issues: Many experts believe that colic is related to digestive discomfort, including gas and indigestion, as an infant’s digestive system is still developing. This is particularly common in both breastfed babies and formula-fed babies, where certain foods or feeding habits may cause discomfort.
- Overstimulation: Infants can easily become overwhelmed by the world around them. Noise, lights, and excessive handling may overstimulate a baby, leading to prolonged periods of crying as they attempt to cope.
- Food Sensitivities: Some infants may be sensitive to certain foods in formula or even breast milk. Dairy products, caffeine, and spicy foods are common triggers that can pass through breast milk and irritate a baby’s sensitive digestive system.
- Immature Nervous System: A baby’s developing nervous system may make it difficult for them to self-soothe or process external stimuli, leading to colic episodes.
Symptoms of Colic in Infants
The symptoms of colic are generally the same for breastfed babies and formula-fed babies. Common signs include:
- Excessive Crying: Colic is characterized by long, inconsolable crying spells that last more than 3 hours a day.
- Crying at the Same Time Each Day: The crying episodes typically occur in the late afternoon or evening and follow a predictable pattern.
- Physical Signs of Discomfort: Infants with colic may clench their fists, arch their backs, or pull their legs up toward their tummy as if in pain.
- Difficulty Soothing: Colicky babies are difficult to calm, even after feeding, changing, or being held.
Remedies for Colic in Infants
Managing colic in infants can be challenging, but there are several remedies and treatments that may help soothe your baby and make the colic phase more bearable.
- Frequent Burping
Trapped gas is one of the most common causes of discomfort in colicky infants. Burp your baby frequently, especially during and after feedings, to prevent gas from building up in their stomach. This is particularly important for both breastfed infants and those fed with formula. - Swaddling and White Noise
Swaddling your baby snugly in a blanket can create a comforting, womb-like environment. Combining swaddling with white noise (such as a fan, vacuum cleaner, or white noise machine) can help calm your baby by drowning out other stimuli that may be overstimulating them. - Tummy Time and Massage
Gentle tummy massages or supervised tummy time can help relieve gas and promote digestion, reducing colic symptoms. Massaging your baby’s tummy in a clockwise motion can help ease any discomfort caused by gas or bloating. This is one of the most effective old home remedies for colic that has been used by parents for generations. - Adjusting the Mother’s Diet (for Breastfed Babies)
If you’re breastfeeding, your diet may play a role in your infant’s colic. Eliminate common irritants like dairy, caffeine, and spicy foods to see if your baby’s symptoms improve. Some mothers have found that avoiding these foods helps reduce colic in breastfed infants. - Warm Baths and Compresses
A warm bath can relax your baby and soothe colic symptoms. Similarly, applying a warm compress to your baby’s tummy can ease gas pains. This method is another trusted old home remedy for colic. - Gripe Water
Gripe water, made from a combination of herbs like fennel and ginger, is a traditional remedy that has been used to treat colic for centuries. While its effectiveness varies, many parents swear by it as a natural solution to ease their baby’s discomfort. - Fennel Tea for Breastfeeding Mothers
Drinking fennel tea is another old home remedy believed to help with colic in breastfed infants. Fennel is thought to reduce gas and improve digestion. When consumed by the mother, its benefits may be passed to the baby through breast milk. Always consult your doctor before trying herbal remedies. - Rocking and Motion
Babies often find gentle rocking or motion comforting. Holding your baby and gently rocking them, taking them for a car ride, or placing them in a baby swing can help soothe them during colic episodes.
How Long Does Colic Last?
Colic typically begins when an infant is around 3 weeks old, peaks at around 6 weeks, and generally resolves by the time the baby reaches 3 to 4 months. While this phase may seem never-ending, it is important to remember that colic in infants is temporary and will eventually pass.
Conclusion
While colic in babies is challenging, it is a common and temporary condition that usually resolves by 4 months of age. Understanding what causes colic in infants, recognizing the symptoms, and trying various soothing techniques, including old home remedies, can make this difficult time more manageable. If your baby’s symptoms persist or worsen, consult your pediatrician to rule out any underlying health conditions.