All babies cry, but sometimes a baby will cry for hours at a time, no matter what you do. This extreme type of crying in a baby between 3 weeks and 3 months of age is called colic. While it is upsetting for parents and caregivers, colic is normal for some babies.

The cause of colic isn't known. In the past it was thought to be related to the digestive system. However, although painful abdominal gas may contribute to colic, there is little evidence to prove it's due to gastrointestinal problems.
Another possible cause of colic is a combination of the baby's temperament and an immature nervous system. The baby's temperament may make him or her highly sensitive to the environment, and he or she may react to normal stimulation or changes to the environment by crying. Because the baby's nervous system is immature, he or she is unable to regulate crying once it starts.

• Arch its back.
• Extend its legs.
• Clench its fists.
• Redden its face.
• Belch or spit up excessively after feeding, which may relieve symptoms.
• Pass gas.
• Have difficulty passing stools.

• Use a pacifier.
• Gently rock the infant using a rocking chair or lap.
• Softly massage the infant’s abdomen or back.
• Play relaxing music (even if it works just for the parent!).