Colic in Infants

What are the treatments for the condition?

Since colic has been part of the human condition for a long time, many treatments have become part of folklore. There is no treatment that has been scientifically proven to be effective in a large number of infants. Generally speaking, medicines are not advised and are not very useful for treating colic. Once they are sure that the problem is colic and not something more serious, parents should trust that the baby is healthy and that things will get better with time.

Colicky infants are often very sensitive to their environment. It may help to keep the baby's environment as quiet and soothing as possible. Avoid sudden or loud noises. Hold the baby in a soothing manner, without vigorous jostling or bouncing. Comfort the baby by holding or rocking him or her while wrapped in secure swaddling in a soft blanket. Soft background music may help. The baby may also respond to swinging in a baby swing or going for a ride in a stroller.

Some infants can have abdominal pain from certain proteins in cow's milk. Colicky infants who are on a formula made from cow's milk may benefit from a different kind of formula. Options should be discussed with the healthcare provider.

It is important for parents to develop a support system. This system should provide some brief periods in which the parents can be away from the baby. A trusted, experienced relative or neighbor can often be on call to fill in for a few hours when the parent needs a break. This break can help prevent child abuse.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

The comfort measures described have no adverse side effects.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Once colic has gone away, no further treatment is needed.

How is the condition monitored?

Parents provide most of the monitoring at home. The infant with colic will gradually get better once he or she is about 3 months old. The colic should end by the age of 4 to 5 months. The healthcare provider should be contacted if the colic seems to be getting worse instead of better. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.