Key Takeaways
- All newborns cry, and babies cry more in the first three months than at any other time.
- Hunger, tiredness, a dirty diaper, or being too hot or too cold causes most crying.
- A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in a baby under 12 weeks old needs a call to the doctor right away.
- Nonstop crying for more than two hours that you cannot calm, crying when your baby is touched or moved, or poor feeding are also reasons to call.
- Keystone Rural Health Consortia offers pediatric care and 24/7 call services for rural Pennsylvania families, and parents can request an appointment online.
What Does Normal Newborn Crying Look Like?
Crying is how a baby says, 'I need something.' Nemours KidsHealth explains that it is normal for a baby to cry for 2 to 3 hours a day in the first 6 weeks. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) symptom guide describes about 1 to 2 hours of unexplained crying a day as normal, as long as the baby is content when not crying. So the typical range is roughly one to three hours a day, spread across the day.
What Is Colic?
Some babies cry a lot more than others. KidsHealth says a baby who cries 3 or more hours a day, 3 or more days a week, for at least 3 weeks might have colic. It usually starts when a baby is 2 to 5 weeks old and ends by 3 to 4 months. Colic is not caused by anything a parent did or did not do.
Common Reasons a Baby Keeps Crying
If your baby keeps crying, run through a simple checklist first. According to KidsHealth and the AAP's HealthyChildren.org, common causes include:
- Hunger, which is the most common reason babies cry
- Tiredness or needing sleep
- A wet or dirty diaper
- Being too hot, too cold, or wearing clothes that are too tight
- Overfeeding, which can cause a short-lived bloated feeling
- Overstimulation from too much noise, light, or handling
You may have heard that gas is a common cause. The AAP's symptom guide for babies under 3 months says gas passing through normal intestines does not cause pain or crying, and that blaming gas is a myth. If your baby seems uncomfortable, a provider can help sort out what is going on.
Normal Crying vs. Crying That Needs Medical Attention
Sudden, uncontrollable crying can feel scary. The table below, based on the AAP's guide for babies under 3 months old, shows how quickly to get help.
| What You Notice | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Baby is not moving or is very weak | Call 911 |
| Baby is not alert when awake | Go to the emergency room now |
| Fever in a baby under 12 weeks old | Call the doctor or seek care now (do not give fever medicine before the baby is seen) |
| Baby cries when touched, moved, or held | Call the doctor or seek care now |
| Nonstop crying for more than 2 hours that cannot be calmed | Call the doctor or seek care now |
| Vomiting, a bulging soft spot, or drinking very little for more than 8 hours | Call the doctor or seek care now |
| New crying that can be calmed, but the cause is unclear | Contact the doctor within 24 hours |
| Baby is not gaining weight or seems hungry after feeding | Contact the doctor within 24 hours |
| Crying started after 1 month of age, or happens 3 or more times a day | Contact the doctor during office hours |
| Normal crying or colic in an otherwise well baby | Care at home |
KidsHealth adds that a fever in a baby is a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C), and that the best way to check a baby's temperature is with a digital thermometer taken rectally.
Trust your instincts too. If your baby looks or acts very sick, or you simply feel that something is wrong, call your baby's provider.
Safe Ways to Soothe a Crying Baby
After checking the basics, try these ideas from KidsHealth and the AAP:
- Hold your baby close and rock or walk gently.
- Swaddle your baby snugly, but not too tight, and stop swaddling when your baby starts to show signs of rolling over.
- Offer a pacifier.
- Try a stroller ride, swing, or vibrating seat. Always strap your baby in.
- Play soft music or low, steady white noise, kept at a safe volume.
- Give a warm bath or rub your baby's back.
Some babies need less stimulation. A dim, quiet room can help.
What to Do When the Crying Feels Like Too Much
Hours of crying wear anyone down. If you feel overwhelmed, KidsHealth suggests calling a friend or relative for a break. If nothing else works, place your baby on their back in an empty crib, close the door, and check back in about 10 minutes while you take a few deep breaths.
Never shake a baby, no matter how upset you feel. If you worry you might hurt your baby or yourself, put your baby down in a safe place and get help right away. You can call your doctor, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or call 911.
How Keystone's 24/7 Pediatric Call Line Can Help
Crying often gets worse in the evening, when offices are closed. Keystone Rural Health Consortia offers 24/7 call services, so parents can reach the care team any time they have urgent questions about their baby.
Keystone's pediatric care team also provides newborn care and well-child visits. As a HealthySteps provider, Keystone focuses on healthy development and offers guidance to parents as their child grows. Telehealth visits can make it easier to get answers without a long drive. Request a newborn appointment online if you would like your baby's crying patterns checked.
Get Answers From Keystone's Pediatric Team When Crying Worries You
Most newborn crying is a normal part of the first few months, but some signs call for quick medical care. Knowing the difference can help you feel more confident, and you never have to guess alone.
Request an appointment with Keystone Rural Health Consortia for pediatric care in rural Pennsylvania. You can also visit the Keystone Rural Health Consortia home page to learn more about the services available for your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal for a newborn to cry a lot?
Yes. KidsHealth says babies cry more during the first 3 months than at any other time. Many cry for 1 to 3 hours a day. Call your provider if the crying seems extreme or your baby has other symptoms.
Why does my baby cry uncontrollably and suddenly?
Hunger, tiredness, a dirty diaper, or being too hot or cold are common reasons. Fever, vomiting, or crying when touched are warning signs, so call your provider right away.
When should I call a pediatrician about my baby's crying?
Call right away for a fever in a baby under 12 weeks, nonstop crying for more than 2 hours, crying when touched or moved, or poor feeding.
Does gas cause newborn crying?
The AAP's symptom guide says normal gas does not cause pain or crying. If your baby seems uncomfortable, ask your pediatrician.
How can I reach a pediatrician near me after hours?
Keystone Rural Health Consortia offers 24/7 call services for families across rural Pennsylvania. You can also request an appointment online.
