Colic
Colic describes episodes of severe, often unexplained abdominal pain. In babies, it causes prolonged crying and distress despite otherwise normal health.
If these symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.
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On this page
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Medicines commonly prescribed for Colic
For informational purposes only. Always consult a doctor before using any medicine.
Dosage form: CHEWABLE TABLET, 40 mg simethiconeActive substance: siliconesManufacturer: Uriach Consumer Healthcare S.L.Prescription not requiredDosage form: CHEWABLE TABLET, 40 mgActive substance: siliconesManufacturer: Laboratorios Normon S.A.Prescription not requiredDosage form: CAPSULE, 257.5 mg simethiconeActive substance: siliconesManufacturer: Arkopharma Laboratorios S.A.U.Prescription not required
Symptoms of colic
All babies cry, but your baby may have colic if they cry more than 3 hours a day, 3 days a week for at least 1 week but are otherwise healthy.
They may cry more often in the afternoon and evening.
It may also be colic if, while they are crying:
- it's hard to soothe or settle your baby
- they clench their fists
- they go red in the face
- they bring their knees up to their tummy or arch their back
- their tummy rumbles or they're very windy
It can start when a baby is a few weeks old. It usually stops by the time they're 3 to 4 months old.
If you're not sure it's colic
There are other reasons why your baby may be crying.
It could be they:
- are hungry
- have a dirty nappy
- have wind
- have reflux
- have constipation
Things you can try to soothe your baby
Your baby does not usually need to see a doctor if they have colic.
Remedies for colic, such as anti-colic drops, herbal or probiotic supplements, are available from pharmacies and some shops, but they're not recommended and there's no evidence they help colic.
Speak to your health visitor for advice and support. There are things they'll usually advise to help soothe your baby.
Do
- hold or cuddle your baby when they're crying a lot
- sit or hold your baby upright during feeding to stop them swallowing air
- wind your baby after feeds
- gently rock your baby over your shoulder
- gently rock your baby in their Moses basket or crib, or push them in their pram
- bath your baby in a warm bath
- have some gentle white noise like the radio or TV in the background to distract them
- keep feeding your baby as usual – you do not need to make any changes to your diet if you're breastfeeding
Don’t
- do not try putting gentle pressure to your baby's spine (spinal manipulation) or skull (cranial osteopathy) – there is little evidence this works, and it may hurt your baby
Go to A&E or call 112 if:
- your baby has a weak or high-pitched cry
- your baby's cry does not sound like their normal cry
You know better than anyone else what your child is usually like. Trust your instincts if you think something is seriously wrong, particularly if they have other worrying symptoms.
You do not have to drive to A&E. You can ask someone to drive you or call 112 and ask for an ambulance.
Bring any medicines your baby takes with you.
How to cope if you have a colicky baby
Looking after a colicky baby can be upsetting, but it's usually nothing to worry about and will pass with time.
Ask for support:
- from other parents, family or friends
Causes of colic
It's not known exactly what causes some babies to get colic. But it may be because babies find it harder to digest food when they're young.
Online doctors for Colic
Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Colic with a doctor online.
