Colic in Infants

Medically reviewed by . Last updated on July 1, 2025

General Illness Information


Medical Term:

Colic in Infants

Common Name: None Specified

Description: Colic is a disorder in which an otherwise healthy infant has severe and paroxysmal crying spells (usually occurring in the late afternoon or evening).

May occur 1-2 times per day, lasting 1-3 hours occurring more than 3 days per week.

Onset under 4 weeks of age and may continue up to 5 months old.

More common in first child.

Healthy child usually fine between bouts of crying.

Baby usually consolable.

Causes: Unknown. Usually seen in high needs babies with sensitive temperaments and in a  small percentage may be related to milk allergy.

Prevention: No specific preventive measures. Remove any causes that can be identified.

Signs & Symptoms

  • Rhythmic crying, paroxysmal;
  • Infant draws up the legs to the abdomen;
  • Clenches the fists;
  • Back arching;
  • Crying may last up to 2-3 hours;
  • Excessive flatus.

Risk Factors

Physiologic predisposition in infant

Diagnosis & Treatment

Diagnosis is generally made on history after the physician has excluded other causes of crying and irritability including inadequate feeding, over stimulation, sickness and a milk allergy. Typically, a colicky baby eats and gains weight well, seems very hungry and sucks vigorously.

General Measures:

  • Cuddle and rock your baby whenever he cries, you can’t spoil your baby in the first 3-4 months of life e.g. use cradle, rocking chair etc;
  • Playing music may help;
  • During an attack of colic hold baby securely and massage lower abdomen;
  • Offer baby a pacifier;
  • Allow baby to cry once you are certain that everything is alright e.g.. not hungry, diaper is dry, etc.;
  • Ask someone to take care of the baby to relieve you as often as possible;
  • Be patient and tolerant. Since colic is not the parents’ fault, do not blame yourself.

Medications:

Medications are usually not helpful for colic. Simethicone (for gas) may be prescribed.

Activity:

No restrictions.

Diet:

  • Interrupt feeding to burp the baby;
  • Allow at least 20 minutes to feed the baby. Don’t prop the baby for feedings;
  • Nipple holes should not be too large;
  • Remove cow’s milk from diet for a one week trial.

Possible Complications :

None expected.

Prognosis

All babies cry, and many have fussy periods. Crying is an important activity and means of communication. Colic is a distressing, but not dangerous, condition. The symptoms can sometimes be relieved. Colic will usually disappear after the 3rd or 4th month

Other

Nothing Specified.


About

Holly McCain, PharmD is a long-term care pharmacist licensed in multiple states, specializing in skilled nursing, assisted living, ICF/IDD, and medical-at-home services. She has over six years of pharmacy management experience, leading regulatory inspections, supervising multidisciplinary teams, and overseeing sterile IV compounding and pharmacy automation. Her expertise spans Medicare and Medicaid compliance, medication safety, and operational alignment in senior care settings. Holly is an active member of ASCP, AMCP, ASHP, and the Senior Care Pharmacy Coalition.