Signs of colic: what to do if a baby won’t stop crying

Colic is when a baby cries for an extended period of time without any obvious causes. The causes of colic are unknown, although some doctors suspect it may stem from a gas or digestive issue.

Luckily, the condition isn’t permanent and will disappear over time.

Signs and symptoms of colic
It is usual for a baby to cry – after all, crying is their only way to communicate during their early stages. However, the baby may be showing signs of colic if:

• The crying exceeds 3 hours several times a week
• They’re extremely hard to settle or soothe
• They clench the fists, stiffen the arms, arch their back or tighten their legs.
• Their crying becomes high pitch and sometimes mimics a scream
• Their face turns red

A colic baby usually has a crying spell at the same time each day, with most of the spells happening in the evening.

Is it colic or normal crying?
Before ruling your baby’s excessive crying as colic, check for health problems (fever, diarrhea, and vomiting are obvious signs), and observe their behavior. At the same time, they feed – are they latching on correctly, sucking hard enough, or drinking enough milk? If none of these problems are present, there is a high possibility that your baby has colic.

Is there a treatment for colic?
Colic may be untreatable, but there are many ways to alleviate your baby’s excessive crying, such as:

• Holding your baby while they cry
• Burping for an extended period of time after each feed
• Feeding your baby upright to eliminate the possibility of them swallowing air while suckling
• Giving your little one a baby massage 
• Rocking your baby in their bassinet or crib 
• Playing some white noise or gentle music in the background
• Singing and talking to your baby in a soothing tone
• Taking your baby for a walk in their stroller
• Pacing your little one in an infant car seat and going on a short drive 
• Changing your baby’s formula into one made from easier-digesting proteins

When does the condition usually disappear?
Babies with colic usually start to show symptoms at 2 – 5 weeks and stop their excessive crying by the end of the 4th month.

Many parents may feel overwhelmed upon realizing that their infant has colic. While the situation isn’t the most ideal, it is essential to remember that you’re not alone – colic is a prevalent condition that affects 1 in 5 infants worldwide.

If you are parenting an infant with covid and are feeling overwhelmed, here’s what you can do: 

• Reach out to family and close friends 
• Get advice from other fellow mothers who may have had this experience
• Hire an experienced helper or ask a close friend or family member to help
• Seek professional help from a doctor or counselor

Remember that it’s nobody’s fault. Your Child’s excessive crying will be over in no time. A big challenge will become a valuable experience for you and prepare you to grow into a better parent.