What is Normal Newborn Crying vs Colic
Overview
Crying is a newborn’s primary form of communication. It signals hunger, discomfort, fatigue, or the need for attention. While normal crying is part of healthy development, colic is excessive, intense, and difficult to soothe. Understanding the difference helps parents respond appropriately and reduce stress.
- Causes & Risk Factors
- Digestive discomfort or gas
- Immature nervous system and gastrointestinal tract
- Sensory overstimulation
- Rarely, underlying medical conditions such as reflux or allergies
Normal Crying
- Occurs in short bursts throughout the day.
- Triggered by hunger, a wet diaper, tiredness, or overstimulation.
- Stops when the need is addressed or the baby is comforted.
Colic
- Defined as crying for more than 3 hours per day, at least 3 days a week, for 3 weeks or more.
- Usually occurs in the late afternoon or evening.
- The baby may clench fists, arch the back, or draw legs toward the abdomen.
- Baby is otherwise healthy, feeding well, and gaining weight.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Digestive discomfort or gas
- Immature nervous system and gastrointestinal tract
- Sensory overstimulation
- Rarely, underlying medical conditions such as reflux or allergies
Soothing Techniques
- Gentle rocking or swaddling
- Soft lullabies, white noise, or rhythmic motion
- Burping frequently during feeds
- Short walks with the baby in arms or stroller
- Avoid overstimulating environments
When to See a Doctor
Consult a pediatrician if your newborn:
- Cries excessively with fever, vomiting, or blood in stool
- Shows poor feeding, lethargy, or weight loss
- Has signs of reflux or persistent discomfort not relieved by soothing
- How to Burp a Newborn Properly
- How to Clean a Newborn’s Nose
- Anemia & Nutritional Deficiencies in Children
- How to Know if a Newborn is Gaining Enough Weight
- How to Put a Newborn to Sleep Safely
- Motion Sickness in Children
- Bedwetting in Children (Nocturnal Enuresis)
- Childhood Obesity
- Newborn Care Basics
- Newborn Diapering and Hygiene Tips
- Nosebleeds (Epistaxis) in Children
- Pneumonia in Children
- Safe Swaddling Techniques for Newborns
- Cough and Cold in Children
- Sleep Disorders in Children
- Dengue in Kids
- Viral Fever in Children
- Why a Newborn’s Face Turns Red When Crying
- Epilepsy & Seizures in Children
- Fever in Children
- How to Bathe a Newborn Safely
Frequently Asked Questions
Our healthcare specialists are equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide you with the support you require. From consultation to diagnosis to treatments, our experts are dedicated to helping you.