How to prepare for a video visit about Colic (Infant) - Guidance

Audience: pediatric

Colic in infants is common and usually involves frequent, intense crying in an otherwise healthy baby. It often starts in the first few weeks of life and can be very stressful for families. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you understand colic, learn ways to soothe your baby, and discuss when to seek further care. During the visit, you can share your baby's symptoms and behavior, and get advice on feeding, comforting techniques, and managing your own stress. Remember, colic usually improves by 3 to 4 months of age. This guidance helps you prepare for your telemedicine visit so you get the most from it and know what to expect.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Baby has a fever over 38°C (100.4°F) or feels very hot or cold to touch — seek urgent care.
• Baby is vomiting frequently or cannot keep fluids down — seek urgent care.
• Baby shows signs of difficulty breathing, such as fast breathing, wheezing, or blue lips — seek emergency care immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing baby's crying patterns and behavior
• Providing guidance on soothing techniques and feeding
• Answering questions about colic and infant care
• Assessing general well-being through video observation

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing serious medical conditions requiring physical exam
• Treating emergencies such as breathing difficulties or dehydration
• Performing physical procedures or tests
• Prescribing medications that require in-person assessment

What is Infant Colic?

Infant colic is when a baby cries a lot and is hard to soothe, even though they are healthy and growing well. It usually happens in the first few months of life and can last for several hours a day. The exact cause is unknown, but it is not due to illness or hunger.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, find a quiet space with good lighting and a stable internet connection. Have your baby's feeding and sleep schedule handy. Be ready to describe the crying patterns, what seems to help or worsen the crying, and any other symptoms you notice. If possible, have another adult present to help manage the baby during the visit.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your baby's health, feeding, and crying habits. They may observe your baby during the video call to assess behavior. They will provide advice on soothing techniques, feeding, and how to cope with stress. They may also discuss signs that need urgent care.

Common Soothing Techniques

Techniques often recommended include gentle rocking, swaddling, soft sounds or white noise, and offering a pacifier. Feeding changes may be suggested if feeding seems related to fussiness. Every baby is different, so it may take time to find what works best.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your baby has a fever, is vomiting, not feeding well, has difficulty breathing, or shows other concerning signs, seek in-person medical care promptly. Colic itself does not cause these symptoms, so they may signal other health issues.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with good internet connection.
• Have your baby's recent feeding and sleep information ready.
• Prepare to describe your baby's crying patterns and any other symptoms.
• Ensure your baby is nearby and comfortable for the video call.
• Have a list of questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.
• Consider having another adult present to assist during the visit.

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.
• Contact your healthcare provider if your baby's condition worsens or if red flags appear.
• Use recommended resources for additional support and information.
• Schedule follow-up visits if advised.

FAQs

What causes infant colic?

The exact cause of 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 last?

Colic usually starts in the first few weeks of life and often improves by 3 to 4 months of age. The crying tends to peak around 6 weeks and then gradually decreases.

Can I prevent colic?

There is no sure way to prevent colic. Some parents find that feeding changes or soothing techniques help reduce crying, but results vary. Maintaining a calm environment and routine can support your baby.

When should I worry about my baby's crying?

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

Is colic harmful to my baby?

Colic itself is not harmful and babies with colic usually grow and develop normally. However, it can be very stressful for families, so support and guidance are important.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your infant has serious symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.