Colic in babies: Condition overview
Help for your uncomfortable baby
Consumer Reports Health explains the best and most up-to-date expert research and evidence about treating colic. Our clear
and sound advice helps you and your doctor choose your best treatment options.
Key points for babies with colic
| Colic won't harm your baby, but it will make your baby cry a lot, and cause you to feel worried and fatigued. Treatments vary from child to child. ConsumerReportsHealth.org can help you discover the best colic treatment for your infant. | |
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- Doctors say babies have colic when they cry for at least three hours a day, for three days a week, for at least three weeks.
- Colic usually starts when a baby is a few weeks old and stops at 4 or 5 months.
- Some researchers think that colic could be caused by gas or painful bowel cramps, but they aren't certain.
- Colic isn't caused by you doing anything wrong. And it won't harm your baby.
- Sometimes babies cry for other reasons. Try to make sure your baby is not hungry, too hot or cold, has a wet diaper or is in pain.
- No single treatment for colic has been shown to work for sure. But some treatments including a baby formula specially treated for allergies, calming behavior, and massaging your baby may be helpful.
This information was last updated in
This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.
This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.








