It can be difficult to distinguish between colic and gas in infants, as both conditions can cause discomfort and crying. Colic is characterized by intense, inconsolable crying for at least three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks in an otherwise healthy baby. While gas can also cause crying and fussiness, it is typically less intense and may be relieved by burping or passing gas.
How Can You Tell the Difference Between Colic and Gas?
While both colic and gas can cause a baby to cry, there are some key differences. Colic is generally defined as a condition in infants marked by recurrent episodes of prolonged and uncontrollable crying and irritability that is of unknown cause and usually subsides after three to four months of age. Gas, on the other hand, is simply the presence of air in the digestive tract.
What are the Key Symptoms of Colic?
- Intense, high-pitched crying that may sound like screaming or pain.
- Crying that occurs for at least three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks.
- Crying that often occurs at the same time each day, usually in the late afternoon or evening.
- Physical signs such as a flushed face, clenched fists, and drawn-up legs.
- Inconsolability, meaning the baby is difficult to soothe during crying episodes.
What are the Key Symptoms of Gas?
- Fussiness and crying, often after feeding.
- Drawing legs up to the abdomen.
- Passing gas or burping frequently.
- A distended or bloated abdomen.
- Relief of symptoms after passing gas or stool.
Are There Ways to Tell the Difference?
| Feature | Colic