Does your little one cry non-stop? Let's talk about 'Purple Crying'!

As a mother or father, you may sometimes wonder, "Why is my baby crying so much? Am I doing something wrong?" It's normal for babies to cry. But there are some babies who cry for hours on end for no reason, no matter how much you rock them. Have you ever had such an experience? It's really tiring, isn't it? We're talking about that kind of situation today.

What is this 'Purple Crying'?

Simply put, 'Purple Crying' is a stage in your baby's development. During this time, your baby may cry for no apparent reason and no matter how hard you try, they may cry non-stop. Sometimes they may even scream loudly. This is a very frustrating and exhausting experience for parents. I understand the frustration and helplessness that comes with not being able to soothe your baby.

But remember, all babies go through this phase . Some babies may cry a little more, some less. However, this is a normal, healthy part of every toddler's development. The important thing is to understand why it happens, what you can do about it, and especially that this 'Purple Crying' phase will eventually end.

When does 'Purple Crying' start? How long has it been going on?

Usually, this 'Purple Crying' starts when the baby is about two weeks old. That means, the condition can start as early as a few days after the baby is born. Then, by the time the baby is three to five months old, the intensity of this crying will likely decrease and disappear. So take some comfort in the fact that this is not something that will be there forever. It is temporary.

What does 'Purple Crying' mean? What do those PURPLE letters mean?

Now you might be wondering if the word 'Purple Crying' means the baby will turn purple. Well, that's not the case. The word 'PURPLE' is formed by combining the first letters of several English words. This is how doctors and health workers explain some of the symptoms that can be seen at this stage of a baby's development. Let's see what they are?

• P - Peak of Crying: This refers to the period when a baby's crying gradually increases and reaches its peak. This crying usually peaks around two months of age. After that, it gradually decreases. It's like climbing a mountain, reaching the top and then coming down again.
• U - Unexpected: This crying occurs at an unexpected time. The baby may start crying suddenly for no apparent reason. Sometimes, the baby may start crying suddenly after having a good laugh. It may also stop suddenly.
• R - Resists Soothing: No matter how much you try to soothe your baby – whether it's feeding, changing diapers, holding them, gently patting them – sometimes it's just hard to stop them from crying. They just keep crying. You may think, "Oh, no matter what I do, it doesn't work." It's a very difficult thing to do. But it's not your fault.
• P - Pain-like Face: It's almost unbearable to watch a baby cry. The baby's face is red and contorted, as if in great pain or distress. But he may not actually be in pain. This is the nature of this type of crying.
• L - Long Lasting (hours at a time): This crying can last for hours at a time. Some babies cry for 5 hours or more a day. It's really tiring to listen to this, isn't it?
• E - Evening (Most common in the evening/night): This intense crying often occurs in the evening or at night. It is worse at night than during the day. That is why some people call it the 'witching hour'.

Are 'Purple Crying' and 'colic' the same thing?

Some people call this condition 'colic'. Others, like I said before, call it 'the magic moment.' Actually, all of these words mean the same thing.

Many pediatricians like to call this developmental stage "The Period of PURPLE Crying®." Because the letters 'PURPLE' describe what to expect from your baby during this time. At the same time, the word 'Period' at the beginning reminds us that this crying – even though it may feel like it will never end – has a beginning and an end . Your baby will definitely get through this stage.

Some experts don't even like to use the word 'colic' because it sounds like an illness. There's really nothing wrong with a baby having 'colic'. If your baby is growing well and is otherwise healthy, but cries uncontrollably every evening, he or she may be going through the 'Purple Crying' phase.

Who coined the term "The Period of PURPLE Crying"?

The term "The Period of PURPLE Crying" was first coined by Dr. Ronald G. Barr, an expert in infant development and infant crying. He, in collaboration with the National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome (NCSBS) in the United States, introduced the "Purple Crying" educational program. Its main goal is to prevent shaken baby syndrome, abusive head trauma, and other forms of child abuse.

What can you do to soothe your baby during 'Purple Crying'?

Now you're probably wondering what you can do to help your baby latch on. The most important thing is to know that latching on won't always work. No matter what you do, there will be times when your baby will continue to cry. That's normal. That doesn't make you a bad mom or dad.

But, you can try these things:

• Check the baby's basic needs: Is the baby hungry? Is the nappy wet? Is it too hot or cold? Is it sleepy? Check these things first.
• Hold your baby close to you for skin-to-skin contact: The warmth of your skin and the sound of your heartbeat can comfort your baby.
• Go for a walk: Take your baby for a walk around the house or in the yard. Some babies love movement.
• Sing a song to your baby or speak softly: Your voice can help calm your baby.
• Bathe your baby in warm water: Some babies like warm water, as it calms them down.
• Use white noise: Some babies find simple sounds, such as the sound of a fan or the sound of rain, soothing.

What if the baby doesn't stop crying no matter how hard I try?

If you've done all of this and your baby continues to cry, the best thing you can do is step away from your baby for a few minutes. Put your baby in a safe place (like a crib) and take a deep breath. Calm down.

It's normal to feel frustrated, helpless, and angry when your baby cries nonstop. But you also need to think about your mental health. If you feel like you're getting too angry or upset to control, be very careful at that time. There's nothing wrong with taking a break for a while, it's natural. When you feel like that, put your baby safely in the crib or in his bed, and go outside for a while. Go to another room. Take a deep breath. Drink some water if you need to. Take a little time to calm down. This is very important. If possible, ask a friend or family member you trust for help and support. Ask them to watch your baby for a while.

No matter how angry or upset you are, never, ever shake a baby. Doing so can cause bleeding, bruising, and swelling inside the baby's brain. This is called 'Shaken Baby Syndrome'. This is a very dangerous condition. It can cause brain damage, permanent disability, and even death. Most of the time, 'Shaken Baby Syndrome' is caused by parents or caregivers shaking their baby unconsciously because they are frustrated when their baby continues to cry.

Understanding the 'Period of PURPLE Crying' can help caregivers cope with this developmental phase. It also reminds them that it is temporary. 'Purple Crying' education emphasizes reducing the risk of child abuse, such as 'Shaken Baby Syndrome'.

When should I see my baby's pediatrician?

To know exactly about your baby's health, be sure to attend routine pediatric wellness visits as prescribed by your pediatrician. Go to these checkups on time from the day your baby is born. The doctor will tell you how often you should come for these.

We now know that it's normal for babies to cry uncontrollably between the ages of two weeks and five months. However, if your baby has any of these additional symptoms , you should see your pediatrician right away:

• If you have a fever of 100.4 Fahrenheit (38 Celsius) or higher.
• If your baby cries a lot (as if it's in pain) when you hold, pick up, or move it.
• If you are vomiting (especially frequent vomiting).
• If you refuse to eat or drink for more than eight hours (if you don't drink milk).
• If there is swelling anywhere on the body.
• If the baby's appearance or behavior is different than usual (such as unusually sleepy, lack of interest).
• If you are not gaining weight properly or losing weight.
• If there is a change in the baby's stool (e.g. color, liquid consistency, looks like blood).

If your baby is healthy and developing as expected, there's probably nothing to worry about if he's crying constantly. However, if you have any concerns or worries, always talk to your doctor. Don't just assume, "I don't know if this is just a fluke." It's best to ask your doctor.

Being a parent is not easy. It is one of the hardest and most beautiful things in the world. When your baby cries non-stop, you may wonder, ‘Am I doing something wrong?’ But remember, this ‘Period of PURPLE Crying’ is normal – and it will eventually end . If you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s behavior, talk to your pediatrician. They can provide you with resources and advice to help you navigate this developmental phase. You are not alone!

What are the most important things we want to take home from this story?

Okay, so let's recap the most important things you need to keep in mind from what we've talked about:

• 'Purple Crying' is a normal, healthy stage of baby development. It is not a disease.
• This is temporary and will probably go away by the time the baby is 3-5 months old.
• The letter 'PURPLE' describes the nature of this crying (maximum duration, coming at unpredictable times, difficult to control, crying as if in pain, continuous crying, increasing in the evening/night).
• It's good to try to soothe your baby, but remember that it won't always work .
• If you feel very tired or frustrated, it's okay to leave your baby in a safe place and step away for a while to rest .
• Never, no matter how angry you are, shake your baby. It can cause serious harm to the baby (Shaken Baby Syndrome).
• If your baby continues to cry and has other symptoms, such as fever, vomiting, or refusal to eat, see your pediatrician immediately.
• If you have any doubts or fears, seek medical advice . It will also put your mind at ease.

` Baby crying, Purple Crying, Colic, Baby shaking, Shaken Baby Syndrome, Parenting advice, Baby health