Crying is common among infants. However, when crying occurs repeatedly, for long periods of time and for no apparent reason, it may be a sign of colic. It is estimated that up to 25 percent of all infants get colic, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians.

Infants with colic may cry until they are red in the face and only stop when exhausted. Pulling the arms and legs into the torso, clenching the hands, cold feet, and a bulging and tightness of the abdomen are additional signs of colic. Repeated or forceful vomiting and fever are not signs of colic, and may indicate another medical condition.

Colic usually begins in the first few weeks of life, may peak by 6 weeks of age, and usually goes away on its own by the age of 3 months. Colic usually occurs suddenly, at the same time every day (most often in the late afternoon and early evening). Infants with colic are otherwise perfectly healthy, with normal stool, weight gain and sleeping patterns.

The cause of colic is unknown, and no single factor seems to be responsible for the condition. Rather, many factors may play a role, including oversensitivity to stimulation (e.g., bright lights, loud noises, meeting new people), which may be due to a child’s temperament (emotional disposition) and/or an immature nervous system. A developing digestive system may also be responsible. In addition, exposure to tobacco smoke has been linked to an increased risk of colic.

A physician can usually diagnose colic based a parent’s description of the child’s behavior. It may be helpful for parents to keep a diary of an infant’s crying (e.g., when it occurs, how long it lasts) and weight gain. A physician will likely take a medical history, ask about the child’s general health, and may perform a physical examination to rule out any other possible causes, such as reflux or allergies.

There is no way to prevent or cure colic. It resolves on its own, with time. Treatment consists of methods to relieve any discomfort the child may be experiencing. There are no medications that can do this safely and effectively in young children. Thus, most treatments focus on soothing a child, such as swaddling or rocking a baby, or helping the infant to pass gas or stool, which may provide some relief. Feeding techniques that may help include keeping an infant upright during feedings and frequent burping. Methods that help some children may not work for others. Parents are advised to try different methods to discover what works best for their child.