By Agbai Sharonjoyce
When infants cry excessively, parents typically become anxious, wondering if their baby is ill or if it is simply behaving as babies do. When the cry becomes prolonged and difficult to soothe, it is commonly described as infantile colic—one of the most widespread concerns that affect infants around the world.
For many mothers, colic is seen as a normal part of early childhood development, which means it’s momentary. It starts a few weeks after birth and commonly occurs between 0 and 4 months of age.
In more than half of affected infants, the crying resolves on its own between 3 and 5 months. A study carried out in southern Nigeria found that about 63% of the children had experienced infantile colic.
Generally, colic is considered harmless because it resolves without medical intervention. It is defined as excessive, unexplained crying in an otherwise healthy infant, often occurring in the late afternoon or evening.
Medically, colic is categorised as a functional gastrointestinal disorder. The label “functional” means that no specific disease or physical abnormality can be identified to explain the crying.
Symptoms of colic involve signs of abdominal discomfort. Babies may draw their knees towards their chest, clench their fists or appear tense while crying. Although the exact cause of colic is unknown, research suggests that several factors may be at play.
One theory is that an infant’s digestive system is still developing, making it difficult to digest milk efficiently. This can lead to gas, bloating or discomfort.
In many African communities, mothers commonly believe colic is caused by excess gas trapped in the baby’s stomach or intestine. As a result, they may try remedies such as frequent burping or administering gripe water (a liquid herbal supplement).
Another theory links colic to early temperament; some babies are naturally more sensitive to stimulation like noise, light or physical handling, making them more prone to prolonged crying episodes.
To help distinguish colic from more serious conditions, doctors use diagnostic tools, such as Wessel’s criteria. This helps confirm that the baby is healthy and that the crying is not caused by an underlying illness.
Despite being harmless, colic can cause significant stress and anxiety for families, especially those unfamiliar with the condition. Out of concern, parents often seek medical care, use home remedies or resort to self-medication.
Research indicates that about 67.7% of infants were treated through self-medication, including herbal medicines and common medications like Nospamin and gripe water.
In some studies, mothers have linked colic to symptoms like vomiting, fever or green stools, signs that are more suggestive of other childhood illnesses rather than colic.
Recommendations
Increasing public education about infantile colic to help parents, especially mothers, understand the condition clearly. Clear information can prevent confusion between colic and serious infections.
Also, governments need to strengthen regulations to ensure that medications for children are sold only with proper prescriptions.
Supporting further research into the safety and effectiveness of herbal remedies commonly used for colic is equally essential.
The bottom line
Infantile colic is a challenging—albeit temporary—developmental phase. While it can be a tortuous experience for both parents and babies during the first few months of life, accurate information and proper guidance from health professionals can help families manage colic safely—without resorting to unnecessary and potentially harmful treatments.
Summary not available at this time.
