Although colic does not actually require real medical treatment, the baby's doctor will be able to provide assurance that there is no serious problem and the baby is healthy otherwise. This will give the parent the assurance and peace of mind that the baby is healthy and will help the parent cope better when the baby is crying. Besides that the baby's doctor will also be able to give good and proper advice regarding the handling of a colicky baby.


So when should the parent decide to call on the doctor? The parent should do so when:

• The baby's cry changes. If the baby's cry changes, the cause for the crying could be different - i.e. from colic to some other serious problems that would require medical attention.
• The baby cries for longer than three to four hours a day
• The baby is behaving differently - even though the parent cannot really identify exactly what is causing the concern.
• The baby is not gaining weight. Whether or not the stop in growth is due to colic, something needs to be done to address the issue and a medical doctor is the best person to diagnose the problem and advise the parent.
• The baby does not stop showing colic symptoms even after the age when colic symptoms normally eases - i.e. eight to twelve weeks.
• The baby shows other symptoms like vomiting, fever or blood in the stools