--- title: What Is Colic? date: 2023-01-02T09:09:00-06:00 author: Hannah Keller canonical_url: "https://www.schneckmed.org/blog/what-is-colic" section: Blog --- [« View All Blogs](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog) # What Is Colic? January 2, 2023 | Patient Education, Pediatric Care ![mother holding crying baby](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/Blog/_50x16_crop_center-center_none/1280x600-mom-and-baby.jpg) ## In this section 1. [What is Colic](#what-is-colic) 2. [Symptoms of Colic](#symptoms-of-colic) 3. [Managing Colic](#managing-colic) 4. [How Schneck Can Help](#how-schneck-can-help) ### Definition of Colic Colic is a condition affecting 1 out of every 4 newborn babies, and it is predominantly known for its most notable symptom: crying. Lots of crying can indicate illness, but babies that cry over three hours on most days in a week for nearly a month or more could likely have colic. When babies appear to be in prolonged distress for no known reason, and nothing seems to console them, they could be having a colic episode. While the cause of colic has yet to be determined by researchers, there are some potential contributing factors to consider, many of which stem from the digestive system. Others include migraines and anxiety-inducing environmental stressors. Smoking during pregnancy and post-delivery has been shown to increase the risk of colic, but the condition itself does not cause persisting medical problems. ### Colic's Common Subtle Symptoms Symptoms of colic are difficult to identify, so it is important to be highly observant. Don't feel bad if you don't recognize the symptoms of colic right away as babies tend to cry at different levels naturally. Specifically, check patterns in behavior and physical signs of stress. Here are common thins to look for. - Crying for no reason - Intensified crying - Evening episodes - Bodily tensions Colic can sometimes be managed to alleviate symptoms, but there isn't a cure to eliminate it. ![infant crying](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/Blog/_42x65_fit_center-center_none/420x420-baby.jpg) ### Fighting Fussiness and Managing Colic This condition becomes most apparent around 5 weeks and subsides when babies are about 3 months old. For their first 3 months, babies can be generally fussy. Soothing a baby with colic can be a struggle, but there are some things you can try to relieve symptoms. - back rub - Stroller ride - Warm bath - Play music - Different bottle - 5 S's - Swaddling, side/stomach positioning while being held, shushing, swinging/swaying and sucking - Switching formula (avoid frequent switches) - Infant probiotic drops If nothing seems to lessen your baby's symptoms, visit [Schneck Pediatrics](https://www.schneckmed.org/medical-services/pediatrics) to confirm an underlying condition isn't causing the distress. From there, you can receive a diagnosis. ### Care at Schneck Help our [pediatricians](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors?service=Pediatrics) help you. While there isn't a simple test to determine if your baby has colic, our pediatric care providers can offer a diagnosis by eliminating possible causes for crying and discussing your observations. By sharing your experiences, we'll be able to talk through potential remedies and connect you with parental support systems. Remember that parents also need to care for themselves. It's okay to ask for help and take time for yourself. Seeing your baby in distress can be incredibly difficult, stressful, and even frustrating when your baby has colic or excessive crying. Please remember it is never safe to shake a crying baby. Know that your team at Schneck is standing by to answer any questions you might have. ![](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==)## Your Pediatric Care Providers Our physicians at Schneck Pediatrics are here to help you and your baby lead a healthy life. ![Dr. Kristin Sanders](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/Doctors/_25x25_crop_center-center_none/KR1_9438-DR-Kristin-Sanders02-3x3-copy.jpg) ### Kristin Sanders, MD Primary Care, Pediatrics [View Info »](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors/kristin-sanders) ![Jennifer Snow](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/Doctors/_25x25_crop_center-center_none/JenniferSnow01-3x3.jpg) ### Jennifer L. Snow, NP Emergency Medicine [View Info »](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors/jennifer-l-snow) [View All Providers](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors) ## Benefit Your Baby At Schneck Pediatrics, we care for children from the moment they are born, and into adulthood. Together our team will be here for you. Our clinic has walk-in hours for urgent concerns. Schedule an appointment with one of our pediatricians and get great care. [Let's Connect](https://www.schneckmed.org/medical-services/pediatrics) ## Related Blog Post When seeking support, rely on your nearby professionals at Schneck. We provide assistance to empower you in taking control of your well-being at all life stages. Explore valuable expertise in connected blogs. ![Doctor holding a baby's hand](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/Blog/_30x19_crop_center-center_none/22-Schneck_Pediatrician-BlogImage_1280x6001.jpg) Patient Education### Preparing for Pediatric Appointments [Read Post »](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog/preparing-for-pediatric-appointments) ![day time photo of Schneck Medical Center](https://d188lfxfyq6i9j.cloudfront.net/general-uploads/_30x19_crop_center-center_none/Z72_2422-copy.jpg) ### Start with Schneck When it comes to support you can count on, trust your local providers at Schneck. We deliver guidance to help you make your health yours at every stage of life. Find expert insights in related blogs. [Learn More »](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog) [Previous Blog](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog/5-tips-for-selecting-a-primary-care-provider) [Next Blog ](https://www.schneckmed.org/blog/schneck-chief-financial-officer-named-to-10-rural-hospital-cfos-to-know) [## Ready to Serve Find a Doctor ](https://www.schneckmed.org/doctors) [## Comprehensive Care Medical Services ](https://www.schneckmed.org/medical-services) [## Locations Near You View Locations ](https://www.schneckmed.org/locations) ## Let's Keep in Touch Sign up to receive Schneck news and health & wellness updates in your inbox.