How can I soothe infant colic, and when might crying mean something else?
Repeated crying in an otherwise well, growing baby may be described as colic and often improves over the first months. First check feeding, nappies and comfort. Unusual crying, poor feeding, lethargy or fever should not be dismissed as colic without assessment.
Details
Safe soothing
Try holding, cuddling, gentle patting and helping the baby burp after feeds. Keep the environment calm and continue usual feeding. Do not automatically change formula or restrict a breastfeeding mother’s diet; seek assessment if allergy or a feeding problem is suspected.
Limits of remedies
There is no strong evidence that simeticone or colic mixtures resolve all infant crying. Do not give herbs or supplements without advice or use pressure on the skull or spine to soothe the baby.
Protect the baby and seek help
Never shake a baby. If overwhelmed, place them on their back in a safe cot, take a brief break and seek support. Breathing difficulty, lethargy, a weak or unusual cry, severe vomiting or fever in a young infant needs urgent assessment.
Related reading: When does a child’s fever need urgent assessment or emergency care?.