What is colic pain ? What are its symptoms?

Question

Accepted Answer

Colic pain refers to intense abdominal discomfort or cramping that is commonly observed in infants, particularly during the first few months of life. It is usually caused by the baby’s digestive system being immature and not fully developed, leading to difficulty in processing milk or gas.

Symptoms of colic pain in babies:

Excessive crying: Babies with colic often cry for more than three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks or longer, usually in the late afternoon or evening. Clenched fists and stiffened body: The baby may appear to be in pain, often clenching their fists and drawing their legs toward the tummy. Pulling legs up: Babies may pull their legs toward their belly as a sign of discomfort or pain. Bloating or gassiness: Colic pain is often accompanied by bloating, which may cause the baby to pass more gas than usual. Difficulty sleeping: Due to the discomfort, babies may have trouble sleeping or staying settled for long periods. Excessive fussiness: In addition to crying, babies may be extremely fussy or irritable.

Colic typically resolves on its own by the time the baby reaches 3 to 4 months of age, but the symptoms can be distressing for both the baby and the parents. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a pediatrician to rule out other conditions.