It is most likely colic — the most common problem in infants and, at the same time, the nightmare of many parents. It occurs in about 15–40% of babies. Symptoms usually begin around the third week of life and, unfortunately, may persist until the fourth to sixth month. Colic is caused by excessive production and impaired passage of intestinal gas. Its causes may vary, but the symptoms are always similar. The baby tenses up, cries loudly, kicks their legs, waves their arms, and their tummy becomes bloated, hard, and tight. It’s clear that the infant is in pain. Green, mucous stools and a large amount of gas are also common. The discomfort typically appears in the late evening, though it can sometimes last almost the entire day, recurring at least three times a week.
The exact cause of colic remains unknown. Abdominal pain occurs in both breastfed and formula-fed infants. Among the most common suspected causes are dietary factors, such as an allergy to cow’s or soy milk protein or lactose intolerance. Poor feeding technique or incorrect positioning of the baby during feeding may also contribute to pain. Often, the baby feeds too greedily and swallows excess air along with milk. If the milk flows too quickly, the infant may pull away from the breast or bottle teat to take in air, and these swallowed “bubbles” cause sharp pain. Hormonal imbalances, excessive intestinal peristalsis, immaturity or irritation of the intestinal mucosa, and nervous system immaturity can also trigger colic attacks.
Our baby and their tummy are, contrary to appearances, a very sensitive “barometer” of the parents’ emotions — their fears, fatigue, and stress. The baby’s anxiety and crying often reflect this emotional tension, amplifying the discomfort.
How can we help a baby suffering from colic?
Fortunately, there are ways to soothe colic, though their effectiveness varies individually. The first step is to identify the cause.
We start by reviewing the nursing mother’s diet. There’s a common saying that a breastfeeding mother can eat anything — as long as it doesn’t bother the baby. In the case of colic, however, it’s worth checking whether the baby really agrees with what the mother eats. Foods that are hard to digest, gas-producing, or allergenic for adults can also cause discomfort in infants. Therefore, at least initially, the mother should limit or eliminate carbonated drinks, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, onions, and garlic. Some babies also react to wheat, citrus fruits, eggs, chocolate, or cocoa. If a cow’s milk protein allergy is suspected, dietary changes should always be discussed with a doctor.
It may also help to improve feeding technique and ensure that the baby burps after every feeding to release swallowed air. When bottle-feeding, switching to anti-colic bottles and teats can reduce air intake. If your baby tends to eat too quickly, try shortening the intervals between feedings so that they don’t swallow air out of hunger.
Colic-related crying usually occurs when the mother is most tired, making it difficult to stay calm. The baby can sense this emotional tension, which only worsens the symptoms. It’s helpful if the father or another family member takes over for a while, giving the mother a chance to rest, take a walk, or relax with a cup of lemon balm tea.
Colic often affects sensitive babies who express emotional overload through abdominal pain and crying. Therefore, it’s important to reduce sensory stimulation in the evening — turn off the TV and radio, limit visitors, and create a calm, quiet environment before bedtime.
Surprisingly, some babies respond very well to steady background noise — the hum of a hairdryer, fan, kitchen hood, or soft rhythmic sounds like the patter of rain.
If the symptoms are severe, always consult a doctor, as colic can sometimes signal an underlying medical issue. Conditions such as middle ear infection, congenital abnormalities, urinary tract infections, constipation, or diarrhoea caused by a virus (e.g., rotavirus) may present with similar symptoms. A thorough medical examination and tests — such as stool and urine analysis or abdominal ultrasound (USG) — are essential. An ultrasound will rule out surgical causes, and if the abdominal pain is due to an infection, appropriate treatment can begin. This ensures that the baby receives the right care and the parents have peace of mind.
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