As parents of a new baby, we all dread the onset of colic, that condition that turns our precious babies into screaming machines, seemingly for days on end. But, we are able to console ourselves with the fact that, while the condition is distressing to the baby and parents, it isn’t truly harmful. Babies outgrow colic, generally after just a few months.

However, there are other conditions that can cause a baby to cry. Colic, you’ll remember, is the sudden onset of bouts of infant crying which last for 3 or more hours at a time, 3 or more times per week, for 3 or more consecutive weeks. And all of that crying is only considered colic if there is no other obvious reason for it.
Here are some examples of conditions that have been misdiagnosed as colic:

• Gastroesophageal reflux (GER). This is similar to reflux in adults as far as the symptoms go, but can easily be mistaken for colic. It is often accompanied by a fever. Many babies who have this condition vomit regularly. If your baby regularly refuses to eat, is losing weight, or runs a temperature, these could be signs of GER. Make sure to see a doctor and thoroughly explain all symptoms.

• Constipation. As always, pay attention to your baby’s bodily functions. If she has difficulty making poo or if she hasn’t gone in three or four days, you should take her to see a doctor. Constipation can be a lot more serious for a small baby than it is for adults.

• Meningitis. This condition is particularly hard to pick up on, and is often mistaken for colic. If your baby’s stomach is swollen, or if she is running a high temperature, he may have a case of meningitis. Take him to see a doctor sooner rather than later, as this condition can be dangerous or even fatal.

While it is true that most of the time baby’s crying is nothing to get worked up over, if you suspect your child might have something more serious, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Babies who run high temperatures should be seen by a doctor, especially if they are less than three months old. Babies who refuse to eat or who have trouble keeping food down should likewise be seen by a doctor, along with babies who otherwise show signs of being unable to digest their food.

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