It's no secret that crying is a huge part of a newborn baby's routine. Most new parents go into the job expecting baby to cry when they're hungry, tired, or in need of a fresh diaper. But some newborns can erupt into crying fits that last for what can seem like forever for absolutely no reason at all, leaving parents frustrated and confused. In those cases, your adorable little bundle of joy gets labeled as colicky. No one really knows exactly what causes these seemingly inconsolable outbursts in babies, but there are some top theories about what causes colic.
According to WebMD, colic is crying in otherwise healthy babies which lasts for more than three hours, three times per week, for three or more weeks. Additionally WebMD noted that colic often appears in babies when they are around two weeks old, and can last until they are three or four months old. Although there isn't one definitive cause of colic, gas, overeating, and exposure to secondhand smoke can all contribute to the condition in new babies.
If your baby is experiencing colic, use trial and error to determine if one of these factors could be the cause. As always, work closely with your doctor to find the healthiest way to relieve your baby's discomfort. And don't be afraid to call on your village for relief if the crying gets to be too much to handle. Sometimes a walk around the block or a good laugh is all you need to put things in perspective.