long lasting colic

Overview

Colic is frequent, long periods of crying in an otherwise healthy baby. It usually starts when a baby is around 2 to 3 weeks old and often goes away by 3 to 4 months. When the crying lasts longer than that, it is called long-lasting colic.

Typical colic is common, affecting about one in five babies. Long-lasting colic, meaning crying that persists beyond 4 months, is less common but still happens to some babies.

Long-lasting colic most often affects infants. It usually begins in the first few weeks of life and can continue for several months. It can happen in both breastfed and formula-fed babies.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Intense crying spells that seem to have no clear reason.
• Crying tends to happen at the same time each day, often in the evening.
• The baby's face may look red or flushed.
• The baby may clench their fists, draw their knees up, or arch their back.
• Extra gas or wind that does not seem to bring relief.

Symptoms in children

• These symptoms are the same for a baby with long-lasting colic, but they continue for many months.
• The baby may still feed and gain weight normally, despite the crying.
• Between crying spells, the baby may appear completely content.

Symptoms in older adults

• Long-lasting colic is an infant condition and does not apply to older adults. Older adults with lasting belly pain should see a doctor, as the cause is likely different.

Causes

Main causes

• The exact cause of colic is still not fully understood.
• It may be related to the baby's immature digestion, gas, or sensitivity to stimulation.
• Some babies may have a food intolerance or allergy, such as to cow's milk protein.
• Gastroesophageal reflux, where stomach content comes back up, can sometimes cause long-lasting crying.

Risk factors

• Being a firstborn baby.
• Mother smoking during pregnancy.
• Birth before 37 weeks or low birth weight.
• Formula feeding, though breastfed babies can also have colic.
• A family history of migraines or similar conditions.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If your baby has any of the emergency warning signs listed above.
• If your baby cannot feed or has persistent forceful vomiting.
• If you feel you might harm your baby or you are completely overwhelmed — get help immediately.

Book a routine appointment if:

• If colic-like crying goes on for more than a few weeks.
• If you are unsure whether the crying is normal for your baby.
• If you would like support and guidance on how to soothe your baby and cope with the stress.

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your baby's crying patterns, feeding, and poo. They will gently examine your baby to look for any other medical causes. They will also check that your baby is growing and gaining weight normally.

Tests that may be done

• A physical examination of your baby.
• A review of your baby's growth and weight gain.
• The doctor may suggest a feeding trial or a change in formula, but only under medical supervision.
• Sometimes urine, blood, or imaging tests are done to rule out other conditions if the doctor is concerned.

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will likely reassure you that your baby looks healthy. They may ask you to keep a diary of crying episodes, feeding, and sleep to get a clearer picture. This helps distinguish colic from other issues.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on soothing your baby and supporting you as a parent. There is no cure for colic itself, and it will pass with time. Always talk to your doctor before giving any medication or supplement to your baby.

Self-care at home

• Feed your baby in a calm, quiet place to reduce stimulation.
• Burp your baby gently after feeding to help release trapped air.
• Hold your baby upright after feeds.
• Try gentle rocking, walking, or using a baby carrier.
• Offer a dummy (pacifier) if your baby seems to want to suck.
• Swaddle your baby snugly in a light blanket for comfort.
• Take a break when you feel overwhelmed — it is okay to place your baby safely in the cot and step away for a few minutes.

Medical treatments

A doctor may recommend strategies to reduce swallowed air, such as paced bottle feeding or anti-colic bottles. In some cases, the doctor might suggest a short trial of a hypoallergenic formula or, for breastfeeding mothers, temporarily removing cow's milk from their diet — but only under medical advice. Medications are not usually recommended for infant colic and are only considered in specific situations after a full assessment.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not used for long-lasting colic. If a doctor found a separate underlying condition that needed correction, they would discuss options with you, but this is very rare.

Living with this condition

Living with a baby who cries for hours can be exhausting and stressful. Remember to look after yourself too. Take turns with your partner, a friend, or a family member when you need a break. Use calm moments to rest, even if it means leaving the housework aside.

Lifestyle tips

• Keep a regular routine for feeding, sleeping, and playing.
• Try to keep the home environment calm and low-stimulation.
• Accept offers of help from people you trust.
• Go for a short walk with the baby — fresh air can soothe you both.
• Take regular time for yourself, even just 15 minutes to breathe.

Diet and exercise

If you are breastfeeding, you could talk to your healthcare team about whether certain foods in your diet might affect your baby. Your doctor should guide you on any diet changes. Gentle exercise, like walking, can help manage your stress, but check with your doctor about what is safe after childbirth.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Caring for a baby with colic can be exhausting and can increase the risk of anxiety and depression in parents. If you feel tearful, hopeless, or unable to cope, please reach out for help. Your mental health matters just as much as your baby's.

Prevention

Colic cannot be truly prevented, and it is not caused by anything you did. However, feeding in a calm environment, burping your baby, and responding quickly to hunger or tiredness cues may help reduce the number and intensity of crying spells.

Vaccines

There is no vaccine for long-lasting colic. Following your baby's usual vaccination schedule is still important to protect them from other serious illnesses.

Screening programmes

There is no routine screening for colic. Your doctor will monitor your baby's growth and development during regular check-ups and address any concerns you have.

Complications

If left untreated

• Long-lasting colic is not dangerous to the baby's physical health in most cases.
• The biggest risk is to the parent-child relationship, as parents may become exhausted and frustrated.
• In very rare cases, severe stress can lead to harmful actions like shaking a baby, which is a medical emergency.

Long-term outlook

The good news is that most babies with long-lasting colic are otherwise healthy and develop normally. The crying usually improves with time, even if it feels like it will never end. With the right support and self-care, you and your baby will get through this.

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