The following script is part of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) radio series 'A Minute for Kids.' Feel free to use this or other AAP scripts in your local print or broadcast media, and in school or community newsletters. Please attribute the American Academy of Pediatrics as the source. For more scripts on children's health, visit www.aap.org

Colic

If your baby cries and cries, no matter how you try to comfort her, the cause may be colic. About one-in-five babies develop colic - usually between one and four months of age. They cry constantly, often extending or pulling up their legs, or passing gas. Sometimes their tummies are enlarged with air and gas from crying. There's no one cause of colic, but there are many different ways to ease your baby's discomfort. One way is to walk her in a soft-sided baby carrier that you strap to the front of your body. You can also try laying her tummy-down across your knees and gently rubbing her back. The pressure against her tummy may relieve her discomfort. Breastfeeding moms can ask their pediatricians about a change in diet or eliminating specific foods since your baby's colic may stem from food sensitivity. Keep in mind that colic usually disappears by four months of age, no matter what treatments you try. For more information on your child's health, visit www.aap.org.

Rev 12-1-2006