A fussy baby often cries for more than 3 hours a day, usually during the first few months, and mostly in the evening. This is usually not dangerous, but it can be very stressful.
Crying is normal. Babies cry to let you know they need something: food, a clean diaper, warmth, or attention. Babies cry the most around 6 to 8 weeks of age. After that, it usually eases up.
In less than 5% of babies, there is a physical or medical cause. Most of the time, it is behavioral and not a medical condition.
What can you do on your own?
- Stay calm. Take a step back if you find yourself getting angry or stressed.
- Set routine: Try to maintain a consistent schedule for eating, sleeping, and playing.
- Comfort your baby. Cuddle, rock, or speak softly to your baby. Use the 5S comforting method
- Safe Sleep: Place your baby on his or her back in a separate crib, without pillows or blankets.
- Ask for help. Reach out to family, friends, or a professional if things get too overwhelming.
When should you see a pediatrician?
Your family doctor or pediatrician will determine whether your child needs a referral to a pediatrician. Call or visit your family doctor or pediatrician if:
- You think your baby is in pain.
- Your baby isn't feeding well or isn't gaining weight.
- You're worried about yourself or your baby.
What do we do?
The pediatrician will determine whether there is a physical or medical cause for your baby’s crying. The pediatrician does this by first talking extensively with the parents and then performing a physical examination of the baby.
In most cases, there is no medical cause for the crying. The pediatrician will provide parents with as many tips and advice as possible, such as the 5S soothing method. Sometimes the baby is referred to another healthcare provider, such as a pediatric physical therapist.
If the pediatrician does believe there is a medical cause for the crying, he or she will conduct tests as needed and develop a treatment plan.
Very occasionally, it may be necessary for the baby to be admitted to the hospital for a few days. In that case, our pediatricians will refer your baby to a nearby hospital. Fortunately, hospitalization is almost never necessary.