Colic usually starts when babies are about 2 to 3 weeks old if they are full- term, and it may start later if they were born prematurely. It often worsens between 4 and 6 weeks of age and typically ends by the time the baby is 3 to 4 months old, though in some cases it may last up to 6 months.
Summary of Colic Onset and Duration
- Start: Around 2 weeks for full-term babies, later for premature infants.
- Peak: Between 4 and 6 weeks old.
- End: Usually by 3 to 4 months of age; sometimes up to 6 months.
Additional Notes
- Colic is characterized by frequent, intense crying without an apparent cause.
- It tends to happen more in the evenings.
- Despite crying and fussiness, babies with colic usually feed well and grow normally.
This gives a comprehensive timeline for when colic typically starts and how it progresses in infants.