Colic is unexplained crying in infants.  It can last for up to two hours or more and may happen several times a day.  Babies with colic are healthy (not sick or in pain), not hungry and are content between crying times.  Colic usually begins during the first month of life and ends between three and six months of age.

Coping with colic:

1. Try cuddling and rocking your baby during crying times.  Repetitive motions like rocking or swinging are soothing for many infants.
   
2. Try to find the position that is most soothing to your baby.  Try any of these ideas:
   • infant seat
   • front baby carrier or sling
   • baby swing
   • stroller
   • riding in the car
   • walking with your baby
3. Repetitive, soothing sounds such as music, vacuum cleaner, clock ticking, or clothes dryer may comfort your baby.
4. Try anything else that may be helpful such as a pacifier, warm bath or massage.
5. Promote nighttime sleep.  Wake your baby every three or four hours during the day to feed or play with him.
6. It’s okay to let your baby cry himself to sleep.  Wrap (or swaddle) your baby in a blanket and put your baby on this back in his crib or bed.  Check on your baby every 15 minutes until he goes to sleep.
7. Get rest and help for yourself.  Try to nap when your baby naps.  Get a friend or family member to help with chores and caring for your other children or the baby.
8. Probiotics have been shown to decrease colic.  These are live organisms that help the digestive process and the immune system.  You can purchase liquid probiotic formulations for infants at your pharmacy.
9. Gripe Water is an herbal formulation that has been used for centuries.  There are many brands that contain herbs such as ginger, dill, and fennel that help may settle the stomach and many parents report that they help.  Because they are herbal substances they are not regulated by the FDA.  Ask your pharmacist if they have a brand they trust.
   
10. A great resource: The Period of Purple Crying. Check out the site here!
    

Call your child’s doctor if:

• Your baby has a fever, diarrhea or vomiting.
• Your baby cries constantly for more than two hours or you cannot find a way to soothe your baby.
• Your baby’s cry changes and it sounds weak or painful.
• You are afraid you might hurt your baby.
• You have other questions or concerns.

REMEMBER:
Colic does not last forever, it just seems like it.

Adapted from a Children's Mercy Care Card.