What is Colic?

Colic is believed to affect about 20% of otherwise healthy well-fed babies. Colic is a broad term which is defined by its symptoms rather than a particular cause.

In general, colic starts around three weeks of age, reaches its peak at around six weeks and then usually begins to lessen around three or four months of age.

A baby is described as having colic by episodes of uncontrollable, extended crying and discomfort.

Colic crying has been typically described as a high-pitched scream, occurring mainly in the late afternoon or evening but it may occur at other times.

Characteristically, an infant’s knees are drawn up to the abdomen, face is flushed, and fists are clenched.

Additionally discomfort and fussiness point toward colic. Although all babies can be fussy and show discomfort only a severely fussy baby might be characterized as colicky.