How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Colic (Infant) - Guidance

Audience: adult

Colic is a common condition in infants that causes frequent, prolonged crying episodes without an obvious cause. It can be stressful for caregivers, but it usually improves with time. Preparing for a video visit about your infant's colic can help you get the most from the appointment. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your baby's symptoms, feeding, and sleeping patterns, and may observe your baby's behavior. Telemedicine can provide guidance, reassurance, and advice on soothing techniques and feeding practices. However, it cannot replace a full physical exam if your baby shows signs of serious illness. Being ready with specific information and questions will help the provider support you and your infant effectively.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Baby has a fever over 38°C (100.4°F) especially if under 3 months old — seek urgent care.
• Baby shows difficulty breathing or blue lips — call emergency services immediately.
• Baby is not feeding or has persistent vomiting — contact healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and history of infant crying.
• Providing guidance on soothing techniques and feeding practices.
• Offering reassurance and education about colic.
• Determining if symptoms require urgent in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing a physical examination of the infant.
• Diagnosing medical conditions that require lab tests or imaging.
• Treating emergencies or severe symptoms.
• Administering medications or interventions directly.

What is Infant Colic?

Infant colic is when a healthy baby cries for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for at least three weeks. It usually starts when the baby is a few weeks old and improves by 3 to 4 months of age. The exact cause is unknown, but it is not due to illness or poor parenting.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your baby's crying patterns, feeding habits, and sleep. They may ask you to show your baby during a crying episode if possible. The provider will look for signs that suggest other health issues. They will also discuss ways to comfort your baby and support your family.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

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Common Soothing Techniques

Healthcare providers may suggest:

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your baby shows any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space for the video call.
• Charge your device and ensure a stable internet connection.
• Have your infant nearby and comfortable.
• Prepare notes on your baby's crying patterns, feeding, and sleeping schedules.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Have any relevant medical records or notes accessible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the soothing and feeding advice given by the provider.
• Monitor your baby's symptoms and behavior closely.
• Keep track of any changes or new symptoms.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if recommended.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms appear.
• Reach out to your healthcare provider with any questions after the visit.

FAQs

What causes infant colic?

The exact cause of infant colic is unknown. It is thought to be related to digestive system development, sensitivity to stimulation, or temperament. It is not caused by illness or poor parenting.

How long does colic usually last?

Colic typically starts when a baby is a few weeks old and often improves by 3 to 4 months of age. The crying episodes usually decrease gradually over time.

Can I prevent colic?

There is no sure way to prevent colic, but ensuring your baby is fed properly, burped well, and comforted may help reduce crying. Avoiding smoke exposure and maintaining a calm environment can also be beneficial.

Is it safe to use medications for colic?

Medications are generally not recommended for colic unless prescribed by a healthcare provider. Some treatments may not be safe for infants. Always consult your provider before giving any medicine.

When should I worry about my baby's crying?

If your baby has other symptoms like fever, vomiting, difficulty breathing, or feeding problems, or if the crying is very different from usual, seek medical advice promptly.

Sources

1. Colic in Babies — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Infant Colic — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Colic and Crying in Infants — Mayo Clinic.
4. Crying and Colic in Infants — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your infant shows any concerning symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.