Baby Colic Explained: Causes, Symptoms and Soothing Techniques | Pediatrician Guide

Dr. Sandip Gupta

This video explains what infantile colic is, its symptoms, main causes, prevention methods, and practical home tips to soothe a crying baby. What is covered in this video: What infantile colic is and its symptoms: Colic usually starts around 3-4 weeks of age and lasts until 4-6 months, mostly occurring in the evening or at night. Key symptoms: the baby suddenly cries very loudly/shrilly, the face turns red, the body stiffens, hands clench into fists, and the stomach becomes tight. The "Rule of 3" for identification: if a baby cries for more than 3 hours a day, at least 3 days a week, for 3 consecutive weeks, it is considered colic. Note: colic is not a serious illness and resolves on its own by 6 months of age, but a doctor should be consulted once to rule out other causes. Main causes of colic and stomach pain: Gas accumulation — gas formed from milk digestion or air swallowed during feeding stretches the stomach and intestines, causing intense pain. Incorrect feeding habits — overfeeding, underfeeding, keeping the baby hungry too long, or improper latching. Allergy from the mother's diet — cow's milk protein or caffeine in the mother's diet can cause a reaction in the baby's sensitive gut. Prevention of colic: Burping — always burp the baby for 15-20 minutes after every feed, the most effective way to release gas. Correct latching — ensure the baby latches properly during breastfeeding or bottle feeding so air doesn't enter the stomach. Regular feeding intervals — don't keep the baby hungry too long or overfeed. Home remedies and tips to soothe a crying baby: Colic massage and exercise — gently massage the baby's stomach in a clockwise motion or move the legs in a bicycling movement toward the stomach. Rocking and patting — hold the baby and gently rock back and forth, and pat the back lightly. Swaddling — wrap the baby in a light cotton cloth. White noise and music — sing a lullaby or play soothing music/white noise. Taking the baby outdoors — a walk on the balcony, terrace, or open space often calms the baby by distraction. Car ride — a gentle drive on a smooth road and the vibration of the car engine can also soothe the baby. Medication — anti-flatulent drops (like simethicone) can be given on a doctor's advice if needed. Questions this video answers: What is infantile colic, and at what age does it start and end? What are the symptoms of colic in babies? What is the "Rule of 3" for identifying colic? Is colic a serious medical condition? Does colic go away on its own? Why does gas cause colic pain in babies? Can overfeeding or underfeeding cause colic? Can improper latching cause gas and colic? Can a mother's diet (cow's milk protein, caffeine) cause colic in the baby? How can I prevent colic in my baby? How should I burp my baby to prevent gas? How do I know if my baby is latching correctly? How can I soothe a colicky, crying baby at home? What is colic massage, and how do I do it? Does leg cycling movement help with colic? Does swaddling help calm a colicky baby? Does white noise or music help soothe a crying baby? Can taking the baby outdoors help calm them? Do car rides help soothe a colicky baby? Can simethicone drops be given for colic? Who this is for: Parents of infants aged 3 weeks to 6 months experiencing excessive crying or suspected colic. Keywords: infantile colic, baby colic symptoms, colic age 3 to 4 weeks, colic duration 4 to 6 months, rule of 3 colic, excessive crying baby, gas accumulation, overfeeding underfeeding, latching issues, mother diet allergy, cow's milk protein caffeine, burping 15 to 20 minutes, colic massage clockwise, leg cycling bicycling movement, rocking patting baby, swaddling, white noise lullaby, outdoor walk soothing, car ride vibration, simethicone drops, calming a crying baby. Disclaimer: This video is for general information and awareness purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your pediatrician to rule out other causes of excessive crying, and before giving any medication like simethicone drops.