How to Diagnose a Colicky Baby
Colic can be a distressing condition for both the suffering baby and his parents. Babies with colic cry persistently. The condition is most common between 2 weeks and 5 months of age. Here's how to diagnose the condition.
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Instructions
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Note the pattern of crying. Babies who have colic cry according to the "rule of 3's ." They will cry for at least 3 hours a day, 3 times each week and for at least 3 weeks. The crying is intense and loud. Often the baby is inconsolable.
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Document any physical symptoms. Your baby will appear to be uncomfortable and in pain. She may get rigid and arch her back. Colicky babies may curl in their legs, clench their fists and curl their toes. In addition, your baby's belly may appear swollen and hard.
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Note the times. Most episodes of colic occur in the evening or the late afternoon and are usually over by midnight. The colic might last for several minutes to several hours. There may be more than one episode per day.
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Discuss your documentation with your baby's doctor. He will want to know when your baby cries and for how long, what physical symptoms your baby exhibits while crying. Describe your child's eating, crying and sleeping schedules.
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Review your baby's medical history with her doctor. It may give the doctor clues as to what is causing your baby to cry if the cause isn't colic.
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Allow your baby to undergo a physical exam and laboratory tests, which can rule out any possible causes of your baby's crying, such as infections.
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Tips & Warnings
Ask the doctor about changing your baby's formula to prevent colic.
The information in this article is not meant to serve as a substitute for regular medical advice and care. If you have any questions or concerns about your baby's health, talk to their pediatrician.
