Possible contributing factors that have been explored include: While a number of causes have been explored, it's difficult for researchers to account for all the important features, such as why it usually begins late in the first month of life, how it varies among infants, why it happens at certain times of day and why it resolves on its own in time. It may result from numerous contributing factors. Schedule an appointment with your child's health care provider for a thorough exam if your infant experiences excessive crying or other signs or symptoms of colic. When to see a doctorĮxcessive, inconsolable crying may be colic or an indication of an illness or condition that causes pain or discomfort. Gas is likely the result of swallowed air during prolonged crying. Sometimes there is relief in symptoms after the infant passes gas or has a bowel movement. Body tension, such as pulled up or stiffened legs, stiffened arms, clenched fists, arched back, or tense abdomen.Facial discoloring, such as skin flushing or blushing.Predictable timing, with episodes often occurring in the evening.Extreme fussiness even after crying has diminished.Crying for no apparent reason, unlike crying to express hunger or the need for a diaper change.Intense crying that may seem more like screaming or an expression of pain.In general, colic is defined as crying for three or more hours a day, three or more days a week, for three or more weeks.įeatures of colic may include the following: The range for what's considered typical crying is difficult to pin down. Babies have been known to fuss and cry, especially during the first three months of life.

A cry in the night book