Infant Colic in the First Three Months: A Common Challenge

Key Features of Infant Colic:

• It involves abdominal pain with a paroxysmal nature, meaning it comes and goes in waves.
• It occurs in the majority of infants (40%-60%).
• It is typical in infants during the first three months, usually starting after the first three weeks of life.
• It is characterized by sudden crying, often accompanied by a distended (bloated) abdomen, and the baby may arch its back like a bow.
• The baby does not easily stop crying but can be significantly soothed by lying tummy-down or when gentle pressure is applied to the abdominal area.
• It occurs equally in both boys and girls, in both full-term and premature infants.
• Significant improvement or complete resolution of symptoms is usually observed after the third or fourth month.

What Causes Infant Colic?

The exact cause is unknown. Its appearance is likely coincidental, without an underlying disease or condition. However, it may be linked to factors such as swallowing air during feeding, a very common occurrence during this early stage.

How Can We Help an Infant with Colic?

• Hold Your Baby: As recommended by the American Academy of Paediatrics, frequent holding during this age is crucial. Do not fear that you will “spoil” your baby, at least not at this stage.
• Prone or Upright Position: Lying the baby on their tummy on your lap or on a pillow and gently massaging their tummy can provide relief. You can also use warm compresses or suitable ointments for gentle abdominal massage.
• Use Gentle, Monotonous Sounds: A consistent background noise like a hairdryer, vacuum cleaner, or kitchen fan can sometimes help.
• Minimize Air Swallowing: Use appropriate baby bottles designed for the first three months. Avoid using a nipple that’s too large for your baby’s age or enlarging the nipple’s hole, which can cause increased air intake.
• Dietary Adjustments for Nursing Mothers: Although allergic conditions associated with colic are not fully documented, if breastfeeding, try eliminating potential allergens from your diet for a short period. This may include dairy products, nuts, carbonated drinks, spicy foods, and caffeine—basically any food you notice that may worsen symptoms. If no significant change is observed, discuss reintroducing these foods with your pediatrician. Breastfeeding should never be stopped due to colic.
• Formula-Fed Infants: If your baby is formula-fed, your paediatrician may suggest a specialized formula for colic.
• Medications: Some drops or syrups have been used for colic, but their effectiveness is not guaranteed. Always use any medication only under paediatric guidance.
• Chamomile and Probiotics: You can try preparing your baby’s formula with chamomile-infused water. Additionally, probiotics like Lactobacillus reuteri may help reduce symptoms. Consult with your paediatrician regarding their use.

Tips:

• Do Not Shake Your Baby: Shaking an infant in an attempt to calm him/her can be dangerous.
• Colic is Normal: Colic is a normal condition during the first three months of life. Avoid constantly changing formulas or administering medications. In most cases, symptoms naturally improve or lessen after the fourth month.
• Not All Intense Crying is Colic: A baby who cries intensely isn’t necessarily experiencing colic. A pediatric examination may be necessary to rule out other conditions.
• Stay Calm: Remember that all the measures suggested above help reduce the intensity of symptoms, not eliminate them entirely. Patience and composure go a long way.

Katerina Katsibardi, MD, PhD
Paediatrician
Doctor of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens
www.katsibardi.gr

Note: Regular paediatric check-ups are recommended. This article provides general information and under all circumstances, you should consult your paediatrician.