Infantile Colic: A Guide for Parents

Endless crying, reflux, and sleepless nights—colic can leave parents feeling helpless. But what if colic isn’t just about digestion? Research shows it could be an early sign of migraines.

While colic is often diagnosed when symptoms fade by 3-4 months, waiting it out may not be the only option. If gut remedies aren’t helping, it’s time to look deeper. Understanding the migraine connection could be the key to real relief—for both you and your baby.

 The Connection between Colic and Migraines

  • The International Headache Society now recognises infantile colic as a migraine-related condition

  • Mothers with migraines are 2.5 times more likely to have colicky babies.

  • Children with migraines were 6.6 times more likely to have experienced infantile colic


What Does Colic Look Like?

Colic affects 5–25% of infants, typically starting around 2–3 weeks of age and resolving by 3–4 months. Symptoms include:

  • Long periods of crying in an otherwise healthy baby

  • Reflux or frequent milk spilling

  • Pulling legs up toward the belly when upset

Treating Colic Like a Migraine

Colic is migraine-related, gut remedies may only result in short term relief. Instead, try these approaches:

  • Minimise time spent in a head forward position

  • Minimise time the infant is in the car seat (if seat pushes head forward)

  • Check capsule for head forward posture

  • Encourage tummy time for neck strengthening 

  • Encouraging neutral positions with feeding and burping

  • Check whether baby has a preferred side of head rotation, if they do to encourage movement to the other side. The Headache Clinic can provide treatment to improve and restore range of motion if symptoms persist.

To settle baby, treat them as they have a migraine:

  • Low stimulus environment: Reduce noise, light, and movement.

  • White noise: Use soft, calming sounds to soothe your baby.

  • Cool compress: Gently apply a cool cloth to the back of their neck.

  • Balanced movement: Avoid head-forward positions, like in car seats, and encourage tummy time.

Why Seek Help?

If your baby’s colic and reflux persist despite your efforts, it may be time to explore targeted care. At the Headache Clinic, we focus on treating colic by addressing its connection to migraines, helping your baby feel better and your family regain peace.