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Infant Colic

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is infant colic?

Infant colic is a condition that causes a healthy infant to cry often and for long periods of time. Crying often starts in late afternoon or early evening. Infant colic may affect babies during their first weeks of life. It usually goes away by the time the baby is 4 to 6 months old.

What causes infant colic?

The exact cause of infant colic is not known. The following may increase your baby's risk for infant colic:

What are the signs and symptoms of infant colic?

How is infant colic diagnosed?

Your baby's healthcare provider will ask you about his or her health since birth. Tell him or her when your baby cries, eats, sleeps, and has bowel movements. His or her healthcare provider may want to know if anyone in your family has allergies. A physical exam will also be done. Your baby will be weighed to check if he or she is gaining enough weight.

How can I manage infant colic?

There is no treatment for colic. The following are ways you may be able to comfort and soothe your baby:

What can I do to help prevent colic?

When should I call my baby's doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your baby's care. Learn about your baby's health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your baby's healthcare providers to decide what care you want for your baby. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.