colic in the morning

Overview

Colic is a term used when a healthy baby cries and shows fussiness for more than 3 hours a day, at least 3 days a week, for more than 3 weeks. 'Morning colic' just means that your baby's crying spells tend to be worse in the morning. Although it can be exhausting and worrying, colic is not a disease and usually gets better on its own.

Yes, colic affects about 1 in 5 babies, making it a very common reason for new parents to seek support.

Colic typically affects healthy infants from about 2 weeks up to 4-6 months of age. It affects boys and girls equally, and it can happen with first babies and later ones too.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Crying more than 3 hours a day, more than 3 days a week, especially in the morning
• Crying that is louder, higher pitched, or more intense than usual
• Clenched fists, arched back, and tense tummy during crying
• Pulling legs up toward the belly, as if in pain
• Facial redness or a flushed face while crying
• Hard to soothe, even after feeding, winding, or cuddling

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of colic is not known, but it likely involves a mix of factors.
• A baby's digestive system is immature, which may cause gas or cramping.
• Overstimulation from noise, light, or activity can make a sensitive baby cry more.
• Some experts think colic may be part of a baby's normal development of crying and self-regulation.
• A possible sensitivity to milk protein (in formula or from the mother's diet) may contribute for some babies.

Risk factors

• Born before 37 weeks of pregnancy
• A mother who smoked during pregnancy
• Baby born to mothers who had stress or anxiety during pregnancy (may slightly increase risk)
• Being a colicky baby runs in some families
• Being exclusively formula-fed (though breastfed babies also get colic)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your baby has any emergency signs listed above, call your local emergency number right away.
• If your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature above 38°C (100.4°F), get emergency help.
• If your baby refuses to feed for more than a few hours, seek urgent care.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Visit your doctor or health visitor if your baby cries more than 3 hours a day for several days.
• If you're concerned about feeding, vomiting, or nappy output, mention this at a check-up.
• If you feel overwhelmed, your health visitor can offer practical support with soothing and settling.

Diagnosis

A doctor or health visitor will usually diagnose colic by listening to your baby's symptoms and asking about crying patterns. They will also examine your baby to rule out other causes of persistent crying, such as an ear infection, a stomach upset, or a sensitivity to milk protein.

Tests that may be done

• No specific test is needed for colic.
• Your doctor may ask about feeding habits, nappy count, and sleep patterns.
• If other conditions are suspected, the doctor might recommend a urine test, blood test, or imaging, but this is rare.

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will first want to make sure your baby is gaining weight and is otherwise healthy. They will ask lots of questions about when the crying happens, what makes it better, and any other symptoms. They'll then guide you on comforting techniques and when to come back if things don't improve.

Treatment

There is no one-size-fits-all cure for colic. The goal is to comfort your baby and to help you cope while the phase passes. Treatment focuses on gentle soothing techniques, adjusting feeding routines if needed, and making sure you have enough support.

Self-care at home

• Try gentle rocking, swaying, or taking your baby for a walk in the pram.
• Offer a dummy (pacifier) if your baby seems to like sucking.
• Swaddle your baby securely (but stop once they can roll over).
• Use white noise like a quiet vacuum cleaner or a fan, but never near the baby's ears.
• Give your baby a warm bath or place a warm (not hot) pad on their tummy.
• Take a break – if you're feeling frustrated, put your baby safely in the cot and let them cry for a few minutes while you step out to breathe.
• Feeding changes – if you breastfeed, some babies benefit from avoiding certain foods in the mother's diet, but always ask a professional first.
• For bottle-fed babies, try different feeding positions and ensure the teat hole isn't too large or small.

Medical treatments

Your doctor or health visitor may discuss strategies like changing the infant formula to a partially hydrolysed or lactose-free one, but you should never change formula without professional advice. They may also talk about feeding techniques, winding more often, or using over-the-counter remedies – but always ask for their guidance first. Do not give any medication without a healthcare provider's approval.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not part of treatment for simple colic. If your baby has a different condition that causes symptoms similar to colic, such as a blocked bowel, surgery might be needed – but that is very rare and your doctor will explain it if it applies.

Living with this condition

Living with a colicky baby can be exhausting and emotional. Remember that this stage is temporary. Every day is different – some babies have better days, others worse. Try to take one day at a time and accept help from friends and family when offered.

Lifestyle tips

• Rest whenever you can – even short naps can help.
• Divide soothing tasks with your partner or another trusted adult.
• Use a baby sling or carrier for hands-free comforting.
• Plan easy meals and take breaks outside to reset.
• Keep a diary of crying episodes to spot patterns and reassure yourself that it's getting better.

Diet and exercise

If you are breastfeeding, eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated. Some breastfed babies are sensitive to certain foods like dairy or caffeine in the mother's diet, but talk to a healthcare professional before cutting out foods. Gentle exercise like walking with the pram can help both you and your baby settle, but avoid overstimulating your baby right before sleep.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Constant crying can lead to parental anxiety, exhaustion, and even depression. It's completely normal to feel overwhelmed. If you feel sadness that doesn't go away, or you feel you might hurt your baby, it's vital to reach out to a healthcare provider or call a crisis helpline right away.

Prevention

Colic isn't always preventable, but some soothing techniques may reduce how often or how long crying episodes last. Feeding your baby promptly when they're hungry and responding to early tiredness signals can help too.

Vaccines

Vaccines are not used to prevent colic, but keeping your baby's routine vaccinations up to date is important for overall health.

Screening programmes

Routine health visitor checks can help spot feeding and weight issues that might make crying worse, but there is no specific screening test for colic.

Complications

If left untreated

• Colic itself is not dangerous to your baby – it is a phase that passes.
• If the crying is caused by an undiagnosed medical issue, that could become serious if not treated.
• Parental exhaustion and frustration can lead to stress and even to shaken baby syndrome – a serious brain injury. That is why it is crucial to ask for help if you feel overwhelmed.

Long-term outlook

The good news is that colic almost always resolves by the time your baby is 4 to 6 months old, often suddenly. There are no long-term effects on your baby's health or development. You and your baby will both get through this – with the right support, you'll come out the other side feeling stronger.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.