What is colic?

Colic is a condition whereby a baby with no known medical condition cries excessively for a prolonged period of time.

How do you know if your baby has colic?

Babies with colic may cry for hours for no apparent reasons (e.g.not hungry, clean diaper, no fever etc). Colic tends to occur at a similar time every day, usually in the evening after a meal. The baby may become very agitated, clenching his fists and drawing up his legs. In between the colic episodes, the baby is well.

What causes colic?

Nobody knows the root cause of colic. Several reasons have been suggested including food allergies, lactose intolerance and overstimulation of the baby. The good news is that colic usually resolves naturally by about 4 months of age.

Strategies to soothe a baby with colic:

• Cuddle him with skin to skin contact
• Give him a gentle massage
• A nice warm bath
• Play soft soothing music
• Go for a walk- if possible, carry him in a baby’s carrier or sling

If the symptoms persist or you are worried, please bring your baby for a check-up.