Colic in babies
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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
  • 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.
Sudden and high pitched crying especially in the afternoon or evening may indicate colic. Your baby might draw their legs up while crying and clench their hands. The crying may stop when your baby passes a stool or is simply exhausted.

Having a baby with colic can make you feel depressed and exhausted. While there's no cure, there are some things you can do to comfort your baby. Our concise condition report and Treatment Ratings table will help you and your doctor decide which colic treatments are right for your baby. As a Consumer Reports Health subscriber, we'll also help you sort through the best research and the most effective treatments for over 100 conditions and illnesses that may affect you and your family.